Addition to 20

1Adding to 10

When you add two numbers and the answer is 10 or less, you can often do it in your head. Practice these "make 10" pairs: 1+9, 2+8, 3+7, 4+6, 5+5.

These pairs are called number bonds. They are like best friends — together they always make 10! Memorize them and adding becomes much faster.

2Adding past 10

When the answer is more than 10, use the "make 10" trick. Example: 8 + 5. Take 2 from the 5 to make the 8 into a 10. Then you have 10 + 3 = 13.

This is called "bridging through 10." It feels like a magic trick, but it is just smart math. Try it: 7 + 6 = ? Take 3 from the 6, add to the 7 to make 10. Then 10 + 3 = 13.

3Doubles and Near-Doubles

Doubles are easy to remember: 2+2=4, 3+3=6, 4+4=8, 5+5=10, 6+6=12. Once you know doubles, near-doubles are simple: 5+6 is just 5+5+1 = 11.

These mental strategies help you add quickly without counting on your fingers every time. The more you practice, the faster you get.

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