Another name for addition.
In math, plus means to add. It tells us to combine two or more quantities to find a total. The plus sign (+) shows that we’re putting numbers together.
For example:
4 + 3 = 7
This equation reads as “four plus three equals seven.” It means we are adding 4 and 3 to get 7.
The plus sign is one of the first symbols students learn in math. It appears in everyday situations like:
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Counting how many apples we have in total
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Adding points during a game
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Figuring out how much money we need for two items
Learning what "plus" means helps students understand addition and sets the stage for more advanced math.
When Do Students Learn About Plus?
Students are introduced to the plus sign and the idea of addition in the early years of school.
Early Childhood – Introduction to Plus
Young learners start using the word "plus" when combining small groups of objects, such as “2 plus 1 is 3.”
Grades K–2 – Adding with Plus
Students use the plus sign to solve addition problems and build fluency with basic math facts.
