Compute: 3.87 − 2.59 = ?

Problem restatement
Subtract two decimals: 3.87 minus 2.59.

Concept/Approach
Align decimal points and subtract placewise.

Step-by-Step calculation
Hundredths: 7 − 9 ⇒ borrow 1 tenth: (17 − 9) = 8 Tenths: After borrowing, 7 − 5 = 2 Units: 3 − 2 = 1 Result = 1.28

Verification/Alternative
Compute differences by parts: (3.87 − 2.87) + (2.87 − 2.59) = 1.00 + 0.28 = 1.28.

Common pitfalls

• Forgetting to borrow across decimal places, leading to 1.26 or 1.18 type errors.

Final Answer
1.28