How to Convert Fractions to Decimals

Fractions and decimals are two ways to describe the same value. Converting between them helps with money, measurement, percentages, and calculators.

Quick idea

A fraction bar means division, so the numerator divided by the denominator gives the decimal.

Steps

1. Read the fraction as numerator divided by denominator.
2. Divide using long division or a calculator.
3. If possible, rewrite the denominator as 10, 100, or 1000 for a place-value shortcut.
4. Check whether the decimal terminates or repeats.

Worked example

Convert three eighths to a decimal.

Full solution

Step-by-step walkthrough

Step 1

The fraction bar means divide 3 by 8.

Step 2

Eight does not go into 3, so use decimals.

Step 3

The result is 0.375.

Common mistake

Do not divide the denominator by the numerator. Three eighths means 3 divided by 8, not 8 divided by 3.

Practice problems

1. Convert 1/4 to a decimal.
2. Convert 3/5 to a decimal.
3. Convert 7/8 to a decimal.

Answers

1. 0.25
2. 0.6
3. 0.875

Ask Pennpaper to explain it live

If the steps make sense but you still feel stuck, start a Pennpaper lesson and ask the tutor to draw the problem on the whiteboard. Seeing the symbols move step by step is often what makes the concept click.

Related guides

• How to Add Fractions With Unlike Denominators
• How to Find Percentages
• How to Solve Percent Word Problems