Free printable worksheet

Comparing Numbers (<, >, =) Worksheet

Twenty whole-number comparisons through the hundred-thousands place.

Elementary MathGrades 2-53 pagesAnswer key included

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What this worksheet includes

  • Twenty whole-number comparisons through the hundred-thousands place.
  • 3-page printable PDF with a complete answer key
  • Designed for Grades 2-5 elementary math practice
  • Available as an immediate free download with no email required

How to use it

Use this comparing numbers (<, >, =) worksheet for guided practice, independent review, homework, tutoring sessions, or a quick skills check. The spacious layout is designed to leave room for students to show their work rather than guess from crowded answer choices.

After students finish, compare their reasoning with the included answer key. When an answer is incorrect, have the student locate the first step where their work changed direction before trying the problem again.

Who this practice is for

This resource is designed for grades 2-5 students working on elementary math. Teachers, tutors, homeschool families, and parents can preview the first page before deciding whether the level and spacing fit the student.

Looking for a broader sequence? Browse all Elementary Math worksheets.

Topic guide

How to approach comparing numbers (<, >, =)

Compare whole numbers from the greatest place value first. The first place with different digits determines which number is greater.

The symbol opens toward the greater number: < means less than, > means greater than, and = means the values are equal.

Learning objectives

  • Compare multi-digit whole numbers
  • Use <, >, and = correctly
  • Explain comparisons with place value

Skills to review first

  • Place value
  • Reading large numbers
  • Meaning of equal
Worked example

Follow the reasoning step by step

Compare 52,407 and 52,470.

  1. The ten-thousands, thousands, and hundreds digits match.
  2. Compare the tens digits: 0 and 7.
  3. Because 0 < 7, the first number is smaller.
  4. Place < between the numbers.

Solution: 52,407 < 52,470.

Try before downloading

Three sample problems

Work each problem, then open the answer to check your result.

Problem 1 · compare tens

8,305 □ 8,350

Show answer

<

Problem 2 · equal numbers

64,219 □ 64,219

Show answer

=

Problem 3 · compare ten-thousands

90,012 □ 89,999

Show answer

>

Error check

Common mistakes to watch for

  • Comparing digits without aligning place values
  • Reversing < and >
  • Assuming the number with a larger final digit is greater