Write the two vectors with matching components
Subtract the corresponding components
For vectors ( mathbf{a} = langle a_1, a_2, a_3 rangle ) and ( mathbf{b} = langle b_1, b_2, b_3 rangle ), compute ( mathbf{a} – mathbf{b} = langle a_1 – b_1, a_2 – b_2, a_3 – b_3 rangle )
For 2D vectors, compute ( mathbf{a} – mathbf{b} = langle a_1 – b_1, a_2 – b_2 rangle )
If using column vectors, subtract each entry in order
If using geometric vectors, reverse the vector being subtracted and then add
Check the result by verifying each component difference