Adding and Subtracting Decimals

A decimal is a number that includes a decimal point, which separates the whole number part from the fractional part. For example, 3.14 is a decimal.

To add decimals, align the numbers by the decimal point and add as you would whole numbers, placing the decimal point in the sum directly below the other decimal points.

19.5

31.9

To subtract decimals, align the numbers by the decimal point and subtract as you would whole numbers, placing the decimal point in the difference directly below the other decimal points.

12.6

60.38

25.09

8.4

Aligning decimal points ensures that each digit is in the correct place value, which is crucial for accurate calculations.