Divide a Decimal by a Whole Number

Divide a Decimal by a Whole Number

1. Set up the division
   Write the decimal inside the division bracket and the whole number outside.

2. Ignore the decimal at first
   Divide as if the decimal were a whole number. This makes the process easier.

3. Place the decimal point in the quotient
   Once you reach the decimal point in the number being divided, put the decimal point directly above it in the answer.

4. Continue dividing digit by digit
   Keep dividing each digit in order. If needed, add zeros after the decimal to continue the division exactly.

5. Simplify and check
   Your answer should be exact and simplified. Check by multiplying the quotient by the whole-number divisor. You should get back the original decimal.

Example idea

If the dividend is 4.8 and the divisor is 3, divide 48 by 3 to get 16, then place the decimal point to make 1.6.

Good habits

• Keep digits lined up carefully.
• If there is a remainder, continue with zeros to make the result exact.
• Use multiplication to verify your answer.