How to convert a fraction to a decimal in 3 simple steps

Do you struggle with math? If you do, you're not alone. For example, a lot of people see 3/4 or 5/6 and think, "I'm so bad at fractions!"

Thankfully, you can use 3 steps to change most fractions into decimals that are easy to work with:

1. Read it

2. Set up a long division problem

3. Complete the long division

What you'll need in your tool kit: while you practice, try working out the examples on paper or using a notepad app.

Fractions and decimals are used to represent a portion or part of a whole.

Fractions

Fractions have a fraction bar. In a proper fraction, the whole number is written to the left of the fraction.

Decimals

Decimals have a decimal point separating the whole numbers from the decimal numbers.

Read the fraction from top (numerator) to bottom (denominator) and read the fraction bar as "divided by".

Example 1: 1 / 2

You read " 1 / 2 " as " 1 divided by 2".

Example 2: 3 / 4

You read " 3 / 4 " as "3 divided by 4".

Since the top number (numerator) needs to be divided by the bottom number (denominator), put the top number under the long division symbol and the bottom number to the left on the outside.

Example 1:

1 / 2 is 1 divided by 2. The 1 goes under the long division symbol and the 2 goes to the left on the outside.

Example 2:

3 / 4 is 3 divided by 4. The 3 goes under the long division symbol and the 4 goes to the left on the outside.

Divide using long division rules.

Since the number inside the long division symbol is smaller than the number outside the symbol, add a decimal point to the end of the number on the inside. Then add zeros as needed.

Example 1:

1 / 2 = 0.5

Example 2:

3 / 4 = 0.75

Want to learn more about long division? Check out this video!

Look what happens if you place the wrong number inside the long division symbol.

Example 1:

Convert 1 / 2 to a decimal.

The mistake in the example: when you read the fraction, it's 1 divided by 2. That means the 1 should go inside the division symbol, not outside.

Ask yourself, "Is this reasonable?"

Since 1 / 2 is less than 1, the decimal should also be less than 1.

Example 2:

Convert 3 / 4 to a decimal.

The mistake in the example: when you read the fraction, it's 3 divided by 4. That means the 3 should go inside the division symbol, not outside.

Ask yourself, "Is this reasonable?"

Since 3 / 4 is less than 1, the decimal should also be less than 1.

Look what great math you CAN do!

Sometimes math can be challenging, but using tips, tricks, and steps can help you step up to the challenge. Take what you've learned and keep practicing. You'll be an ace at fractions and decimals in no time.