A “what comes before” worksheet is a simple early math worksheet where children fill in the number that appears directly before a given number in a sequence (for example, writing 6 before 7 or 19 before 20).

What is a “what comes before” worksheet?

A what comes before worksheet focuses on number order and sequencing, usually for preschool, kindergarten, or early grade 1 students. The child is shown a number and must write (or choose) the number that comes immediately before it on a number line.

Typical features include:

  • Rows such as “__ 7” or “__ 15” where learners write the missing number that comes before.
  • Number ranges like 1–10, 1–20, 1–50, or 1–100 depending on the level.
  • Sometimes combined with “before, between, and after” tasks in the same sheet.

Why teachers use these worksheets

These worksheets help children:

  • Understand number sequencing and order (for example, 3 is before 5, 5 is after 3, and 4 is between them).
  • Practice counting backwards, which supports subtraction and mental math later on.
  • Build confidence with simple, visual number-line style activities.

Common formats and variations

You will often see:

  • “What comes before?” only (just the previous number).
  • Combined pages: “What comes before and after?” where children fill both the previous and next numbers.
  • “Before, between and after” worksheets that add a middle missing number (e.g., 3, __, 5).

Worksheets can be printable PDFs from education sites or custom teacher-made sheets using worksheet creators and templates.

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