Common Misconceptions About the Less Than Sign in Math

ElevatEd
Math
February 13, 2025

The less than sign may not have a unique name but let me tell you it is not less than any other math symbol! Young learners often find it difficult to understand inequality symbols like the greater than and the less than sign. It is mainly because the symbols look almost identical and for young children, it can be confusing. Today we will focus on the less than sign but before that, we need to comprehend what are mathematical symbols and why getting them right is vital.

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To comprehend numbers and their relationships, mathematical symbols are essential. The less than sign (<), which aids in value comparison, is one such crucial symbol. But a lot of students, particularly young ones, frequently misinterpret how to use it, which makes problem-solving difficult. We'll look at the less than sign's definition, applications, and common misunderstandings in this blog.

What is the Less Than Sign?

A mathematical symbol for indicating that one number is smaller than another is the less than sign (<). For instance, 1 < 2 indicates that 1 is less than 2. The symbol's pointed side always faces the lower number, while its open side always faces the larger one.

Common Misconceptions About the Less Than Sign

Some common errors that we make when it comes to the less than sign are-

The Less Than Sign is sometimes confused with the Greater Than Sign (>)-Due to their similar appearance, students frequently confuse < and >. Remembering that the open side always faces the larger number is an easy trick.
Backward Reading of the Sign- Some students read 3 < 5 incorrectly, thinking that "5 is less than 3" rather than "3 is less than 5." Read from left to right at all times.
Misunderstanding Word Problem Inequalities- When converting sentences into mathematical formulae, students occasionally use the sign incorrectly. For instance, J < 8 rather than J > 8 should be used to write "John has fewer than 8 apples."
Thinking The Less Than Sign Is Only Relevant to Whole Numbers- Although some people think that < only works with whole numbers, it can also be used with fractions, decimals, and negative numbers (e.g., -4 < -1).

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How Do We Use the Less Than Sign?

The less than sign is frequently utilized in-

Finding the lesser number in an equation (e.g., 9 < 10) is made easier by comparing numbers.
In algebra, inequalities are used to explain the connections between variables. For example, x < 7 indicates that x can be any number less than 7.
It can be found in daily life applications, like temperature readings, sports results, and price comparisons.

In conclusion, it is essential to comprehend the less than sign to become proficient in math. Students may accurately answer inequalities and compare numbers with confidence if they steer clear of common misconceptions. Learning can be greatly impacted by simple strategies like remembering that the larger number is the open side. Many such tips are provided in our extensive Math program. Check 98thPercentile's Math Program now and avail our one-week free trial classes.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q.1: What are inequality symbols in Math?

Ans: Inequality symbols, such as < (less than), > (greater than), ≤ (less than or equal to), and ≥ (greater than or equal to), are used to compare values.

Q.2: How do we portray the greater than symbol?

Ans: The greater than symbol (>) opens toward the larger number and points toward the smaller number, such as 8 > 2

Q.3: What is the less than sign?

Ans: When a number is smaller than another, it is indicated by the less than sign (<) like in 4 < 7 (4 is less than 7).

Q.4: Where can the less than sign be used?

Ans: Inequalities, stock market movements, temperature fluctuations, comparisons, and real-world pricing discrepancies all use the less than sign (<).

Q.5: Why do children get confused between the greater than and less than signs?

Ans: Because > and < have similar appearances, children misinterpret them. It helps to recall that the open side faces the greater number. Try the hungry alligator theory.