To compare, look at the biggest place first. If it matches, look at the next place. The open mouth of < or > always faces the bigger number.
Worked example
Which sign fits: <, = or >?
Answer:32 < 82
Look at the tens first. 82 has 8 tens and 32 has 3, so 82 is bigger: 32 < 82. The open side of the sign always faces the bigger number.
For grown-ups: Compare three-digit numbers. Below: three problems to try with the worked answers, and a free printable sheet. Children can practise the same skill as a game, with no sign-up and no ads.
CCSS 2.NBT.A.4
What this practises, for teachers
Practices compare three-digit numbers (2.NBT.A.4). A printable sheet with its answer key, worked answers on the page, no accounts.
Look at the tens first. 94 has 9 tens and 15 has 1, so 94 is bigger: 15 < 94. The open side of the sign always faces the bigger number.
Which sign fits: <, = or >?
Show the answer and how
Answer:86 > 85
The tens are the same, so look at the ones. 86 has 6 ones and 85 has 5, so 86 is bigger: 86 > 85. The open side of the sign always faces the bigger number.
Which sign fits: <, = or >?
Show the answer and how
Answer:237 < 451
Look at the hundreds first. 451 has 4 hundreds and 237 has 2, so 451 is bigger: 237 < 451. The open side of the sign always faces the bigger number.