Math Word Problems Demystified - A Self Teaching Guide

To multiply two decimals, multiply the numbers as is usually done. Count

the number of digits to the right of the decimal points in the problem and

then have the same number of digits to the right of the decimal point in the

answer.

EXAMPLE:Multiply 28.623.7.

SOLUTION:

28.62 You need

 3.7 3 decimal

20034 places in the

8586 answer

105.894

To divide two decimals when there is no decimal point in the divisor (the

number outside the division box), place the decimal point in the answer

directly above the decimal point in the dividend (the number under the

division box). Divide as usual.

EXAMPLE:Divide 2305.137.

SOLUTION:

37 Þ 2305 : 1

62 : 3

222

85

74

111

111

To divide two decimals when there is a decimal point in the divisor, move

the point to the end of the number in the divisor, and then move the point the

same number of places in the dividend. Place the decimal point in the answer

directly above the decimal point in the dividend. Divide as usual.

EXAMPLE:Divide 30.6516.01.

SOLUTION:

6 : 01 Þ 30 : 651 601 Þ 3065 : 1

5 : 1

Move the points

3005 two places to the

601 right

601

12 REFRESHER I Decimals