Using place value to make adding and subtracting whole numbers easier is really helpful! Here’s how I think it works:

1. Break It Down: When you see a big number, like 487 + 258, instead of adding them straight away, try breaking them into smaller parts. Look at the hundreds, tens, and ones separately:

   • Hundreds: 400 + 200 = 600
   • Tens: 80 + 50 = 130
   • Ones: 7 + 8 = 15

   Now, just add those results together:

   • 600 + 130 + 15 = 745

2. Align Numbers: For subtraction, it helps to line up the numbers. This way, you can see what you’re working with more clearly. For example, doing 600 - 250 is easier if you line the numbers up like this:

     600
   - 250
   ------
   

   Now subtract each place value:

   • Hundreds: 6 - 2 = 4
   • Tens: 0 - 5 (uh-oh, we need to borrow here!)
   • Ones: After borrowing, it makes it easier to figure out rather than trying to do it all at once.

When you break numbers apart, it not only makes the math easier, but it also helps you avoid mistakes. It’s a great way to feel more confident when working with numbers!