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How to Divide Decimals

Learn how to divide decimals by moving decimal points, using long division, checking your answer, avoiding mistakes, troubleshooting, and FAQs.

EducationEdited by Pramod Tiwari
2 min read

Quick Answer

To divide decimals, move the decimal in the divisor to make it a whole number, move the decimal in the dividend the same number of places, divide normally, and place the decimal in the quotient directly above the dividend decimal.

What You Need

  • Pencil and paper
  • Division problem
  • Place value understanding
  • Long division basics
  • Calculator for checking if allowed

Safety Precautions

  • Move both decimals the same number of places.
  • Keep place values lined up.
  • Add zeros only when needed to continue dividing.
  • Estimate first so you can catch unreasonable answers.
  • Show work if this is for school.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Identify the divisor

    Look at the number you are dividing by.

  2. Step 2

    Make divisor whole

    Move its decimal point right until it becomes a whole number.

  3. Step 3

    Move dividend decimal too

    Move the decimal in the dividend the same number of places.

  4. Step 4

    Set up long division

    Use the adjusted numbers in a normal division setup.

  5. Step 5

    Place the decimal

    Put the decimal in the answer directly above the dividend decimal.

  6. Step 6

    Divide and add zeros

    Continue dividing, adding zeros after the decimal if needed.

  7. Step 7

    Check by multiplying

    Multiply the quotient by the original divisor to check the original dividend.

Practical Example

Example: For 4.5 ÷ 0.3, move both decimals one place to get 45 ÷ 3, so the answer is 15.

Common Mistakes

  • Moving only one decimal
  • Placing the decimal in the wrong spot
  • Forgetting to estimate
  • Dropping zeros
  • Confusing divisor and dividend
  • Rounding too early

Troubleshooting

The answer seems too large

Estimate first and check whether dividing by a decimal less than 1 should make the answer larger.

Decimal placement is confusing

After adjusting the divisor, place the quotient decimal above the adjusted dividend decimal.

Division never ends

Follow your assignment rules for rounding or repeating decimals.

You moved decimals differently

Restart; both numbers must shift the same number of places.

FAQs

Why do you move decimals when dividing?

Moving both decimals by the same amount keeps the value of the division equivalent while making the divisor easier to use.

Can the answer be bigger than the starting number?

Yes, when dividing by a decimal less than 1.

How do I check decimal division?

Multiply the quotient by the original divisor.

What if the divisor is already a whole number?

Divide normally and keep the dividend decimal aligned in the answer.

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