In number comparison, we use these symbols to show us how two numbers compare.

An easy way to remember if you should use < or >, think of an alligator. The alligator is greedy and always wants to eat the larger number.

100		9			15		49
100 > 9					15 < 49

When comparing numbers, you always compare from left to right.

So for 264 ? 266, first compare the hundreds: 264 ? 266
Since they are the same, compare the tens: 264 ? 266
Since they are the same, compare the ones: 264 ? 266

4 is less than 6, so 264 is less than 266.
264 < 266

Example 1:

Use >, <, or = to relate the two numbers.
2929 2832

We always compare numbers from left to right.
First compare the thousands: 2929 ? 2832
Since they are the same, compare the hundreds: 2929 ? 2832

9 is greater than 8, so 2929 is greater than 2832.

2929 2832

Example 2:

Determine if the first number is greater than, less than, or equal to the second number.
9951 9957

We always compare numbers from left to right.
First compare the thousands: 9951 ? 9957
Since they are the same, compare the hundreds: 9951 ? 9957
Since they are the same, compare the tens: 9951 ? 9957
Since they are the same, compare the ones: 9951 ? 9957

1 is less than 7, so 9951 is less than 9957.

9951 9957