Decimal Operations

Add and Subtract Decimals

The procedures are just like whole numbers!

You add or subtract starting with the smallest place value. This means the decimals must be lined up and you need to add place holders!

1. Line up the decimal points

2. Fill in any empty decimal places with zeros

3. Bring the decimal point straight down in your answer!

Multiply Decimals

The decimal does NOT go straight down!

1. Pretend the decimal is not there. Multiply like you would whole numbers.

2. Count the total number of decimal places in the factors.

3. Place the decimal in the final product.

Divide Decimals

The DIVISOR must be a whole number!

1. Make the divisor a whole number by moving the decimal point.

2. Move the decimal point in the dividend the same number of times.

3. Bring the decimal point straight up in the quotient. Then divide like normal!