Let's learn how to add problems with dollar amounts. If you know how to do column addition, you can add dollars and cents the same way. Adding dollar amounts involves using column addition.
The first step is to write the two addends (numbers being added together), one on top of the other, so that the decimal points and place values are lined up. Remember to write a plus sign to the left of the bottom addend and put an equal bar under the bottom addend.
Let's write an addition problem with dollars and cents:
$3.12
+ $6.45
Now we can solve the problem just like any other column addition problem. First, add the digits in the hundreds place (hundreds column). What's 2 + 5? The answer is 7. Write 7 under the equal bar.
Next, add the digits in the tens place (tens column). What's 1 + 4? Yes, it's 5. Write 5 under the equal bar.
Then, add the digits in the ones place (ones column). What's 3 + 6? It's 9. Write 9 under the equal bar.
Now, remember to add a decimal point by bringing it straight down out of the problem. The decimal point should be lined up with the decimal points in the addends. Then add a dollar sign in front of the whole number. You have your answer!
$3.12
+ $6.45
$9.57
