Regrouping in Addition
A Step-by-Step Visual Guide for Kids
Most regrouping errors happen because children learn the steps without understanding why carrying works. This guide shows both — so the procedure actually makes sense.
Ask this question first:
"Do the ones add up to 10 or more?"
If YES → Regroup (carry the ten). If NO → Write the number directly.
How to Regroup — Step by Step
Let's use 27 + 35 as our example
We need to add 27 and 35. Write them vertically, lining up the ones and tens.
7 ones + 5 ones = 12 ones. But 12 ones is more than 9 — we need to regroup.
Write the 2 in the ones place. Carry the 1 ten to the tens column.
Add the carried 1 ten + 2 tens + 3 tens = 6 tens.
The answer is 62. The carried ten made the tens column larger.
Regrouping works because 10 ones make 1 ten — the value stays the same.
Why Regrouping Works
Regrouping works because 10 ones make 1 ten. The value stays the same — you're just changing how the number is written.
Visual reminder: 10 ones (⚫⚫⚫⚫⚫ ⚫⚫⚫⚫⚫) regroup into 1 ten (🔟).
Try These Examples
Follow the same steps: add ones, regroup if needed, add tens
Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Understanding place value is the key to mastering regrouping.
Number Sense Foundations
GRADES K–2
Regrouping is where addition gets tricky for most kids — and the reason is almost always that place value wasn't fully solid first. This course builds genuine number sense, starting with place value, then moving through composing and decomposing numbers, addition and subtraction concepts, and the mental math strategies that make regrouping feel natural rather than like a magic trick. Every lesson tells you exactly what to say, what to watch for, and what to do when a child is stuck.
Get Number Sense Foundations on Gumroad →More Math Tricks & Guides
Ready to Practice Regrouping?
Generate free custom addition worksheets — with and without regrouping — to build fluency and confidence.
Free • No registration required • 10 worksheets per day