---
title: "Ordering Numbers to 1000"
description: "Compare and order numbers up to 1000 using >, =, and < symbols, based on place-value understanding"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/ordering-numbers-to-1000-mt_AQcVRBddko
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/ordering-numbers-to-1000-mt_AQcVRBddko.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Ordering Numbers to 1000

Compare and order numbers up to 1000 using >, =, and < symbols, based on place-value understanding

Subject: Mathematics · Area: Number Representation & Place Value · Ages 7 to 8
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/ordering-numbers-to-1000-mt_AQcVRBddko

## Ready when they can

- Compare two three-digit numbers by examining hundreds first, then tens, then ones
- Use >, =, and < correctly to record comparisons of three-digit numbers
- Order a set of numbers up to 1000 from smallest to largest

## Lesson: Comparing and ordering numbers to 1000

To compare two three-digit numbers, look at the hundreds digit first. Whichever number has more hundreds is the bigger number. If the hundreds match, compare the tens next. If the tens match too, compare the ones.

**Example.** Compare 456 and 231. Both numbers have three digits, so start with the hundreds: 4 and 2. Since 4 is more than 2, 456 is bigger. We write this as 456 > 231.

*(drawing: 231 is the smallest, 456 is in the middle, and 789 is the biggest. Reading left to right, that is smallest to largest.)*

**Tip.** The pointy end of > and < always faces the smaller number, like a mouth eating the bigger pile of food. If the hundreds tie and the tens tie too, the ones digit breaks the tie.

**Recap.** Compare hundreds first, then tens, then ones, and use >, <, or = to show which number wins.

## Practice

18 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [The three digits of a three-digit number](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/the-three-digits-of-a-three-digit-number-mt_aPBzD28_mT)
- [Comparing and ordering numbers](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/comparing-and-ordering-numbers-mt_U0waNfD8PB)

## Opens up

- [Comparing Large Numbers](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/comparing-large-numbers-mt_MHaiUd2FLA)
- [Rounding to 10, 100, 1000](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/rounding-to-10-100-1000-mt_NLSfvB9vUl)