Skill: Compare three-digit numbers

To compare three-digit numbers, look at their place values from left to right:

1. Compare the hundreds digits.
2. If they are the same, compare the tens digits.
3. If those are the same, compare the ones digits.
4. Write $>$ for “greater than,” $<$ for “less than,” or $=$ for “equal to.”

Example: Compare $(472)$ and $(459)$.

Line up the place values:

$$\begin{array}{ccc} \text{Hundreds} & \text{Tens} & \text{Ones}\\ 4 & 7 & 2\\ 4 & 5 & 9 \end{array}$$

• The hundreds digits are both $4$, so they are equal.
• Compare the tens digits: $7$ is greater than $5$.
• We can stop because the tens place decides which number is greater.

So,

$$472>459$$

Remember to compare digits by their place, not just by how the digits look.