To convert a decimal to a fraction, follow these steps:
- Identify the place value of the last digit after the decimal point. For example, in 0.5, the 5 is in the tenths place; in 0.75, the last digit is in the hundredths place
- Write the decimal as a fraction with the decimal number as the numerator (top number) and 1 as the denominator (bottom number). Then multiply both numerator and denominator by 10 raised to the number of decimal places. For example, for 0.75 (two decimal places), multiply numerator and denominator by 100 to get 75/100
- Simplify the fraction by dividing numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor (GCF). For instance, 75/100 simplifies to 3/4
- If the decimal is negative , convert the positive part first, then apply the negative sign to the fraction
Example: Convert 0.625 to a fraction.
- Step 1: 0.625 has three digits after the decimal, so denominator will be 1000.
- Step 2: Write as 625/1000.
- Step 3: Simplify by dividing numerator and denominator by 125 to get 5/8
Summary:
- Remove the decimal point and write the number as the numerator.
- Use a denominator of 10, 100, 1000, etc., depending on decimal places.
- Simplify the fraction to its lowest terms.
This method works for both terminating decimals and can be adapted for repeating decimals with additional algebraic steps
. This process is a straightforward way to convert any decimal to a fraction
