If decimal numbers are making it difficult for you to calculate division, simplify the process by learning how to move decimals. By moving the decimal point, you will divide the whole number. You just need to remember to also move the decimal point on the number you want to share. Then, check your answers to make sure the decimal point is in the correct digits and that your answer is not wrong.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Dividing by Decimal Numbers
Step 1. Find the denominator
This is the number that divides the numerator. So, if the example equation is 22.5 15, 2, the denominator is 15, 2. If the numbers are separated by dividing lines, the denominator is the number to the left of the brackets.
Step 2. Find the numerator
The numerator is the number that is divided. For example, if the example equation is 22.5 15, 2, the numerator is 22, 5.
If the numbers are separated by a dividing line, it means that the numerator is the number to the right (inside) of the brackets
Step 3. Solve the problem to get the quotient
When you divide the numerator by the denominator, the answer you get is the quotient. This answer can be written above the dividing line.
For example, the quotient of 22.5 15, 2 is 1.48
Part 2 of 2: Checking the Answers
Step 1. Move the decimal point if the denominator is a decimal number
If the denominator is a decimal number, move up the comma until it becomes an integer. For example, if the denominator is 0.005, shift the comma two digits to the right to get 5.
- If you have more than one number after the decimal point, keep shifting the decimal point of the number until it becomes an integer. For example, for the numbers 43, 52, the decimal point is shifted by 2 digits until you get to 4352.
- If the denominator is a whole number, the decimal point does not need to be shifted.
Step 2. Move the decimal point in the numerator if necessary
If you move the decimal point in the denominator, the decimal point in the numerator also needs to be moved. Slide by the same number of digits, which means you'll need to add zeros if needed.
- For example, if you have 4.5 0.05 and the decimal point is shifted by 2 digits. You earn 450 5.
- Consider rewriting the problem so you don't make a simple mistake.
Step 3. Move the decimal point directly above the dividing line
Place the decimal point above the decimal point in the numerator.
If you move the decimal point 2 digits to the right, it will be above the line and immediately after the 0 below it
Step 4. Distribute the questions as usual
Work from left to right to see how many times the denominator can enter the numerator. Place the quotient above the line and do not move the decimal point.
For example, because 5 doesn't go into 4, see how many times it goes into 45. Since 5 goes into 45 nine times, put the number 9 at the top followed by a zero
Step 5. Check your work with a calculator or multiplication
If you need to check the result of a calculation, multiply the quotient obtained from the initial denominator. You should get the original denominator if the problem is done correctly.
