Worked example 1
Compare 0.487 and 0.5 using <, >, or =.
Write 0.5 as 0.500 so both have three decimal places. Compare the tenths: 4 vs. 5. Since 4 < 5, we get 0.487 < 0.500.
Answer: 0.487 < 0.5
Grade 6 Math · Topic 18
Comparing and Ordering Decimals
To compare decimals, line up the decimal points and compare place by place, left to right, just like whole numbers. When the digit you are comparing differs, the bigger digit wins. Add zeros to the right if it helps you compare equal-length numbers.
Lesson alignment: 6.NS.C.7 · Take your time. You can return to this lesson whenever you need it.
Explore visually
Compare decimals on a number line
Move each decimal and see which value is farther to the right.
Think first: Which decimal do you expect to be farther right on the number line?
Ready? Reveal the model and try your prediction
Swipe horizontally to see the full diagram.
Turn on JavaScript to adjust this model. The examples and practice below work without it.
Follow the worked examples
Read each step, then cover the explanation and see if you can explain why it works.
Worked example 2
Order from least to greatest: 0.62, 0.625, 0.6, 0.62.
Write all to three decimal places: 0.620, 0.625, 0.600, 0.620. Compare: 0.600 < 0.620 = 0.620 < 0.625. So least to greatest: 0.6, 0.62, 0.62, 0.625.
Answer: 0.6 < 0.62 = 0.62 < 0.625
Try a few on your own
Work these on paper first. Open “Check” when you are ready to compare your answer.
- 0.4 □ 0.40
Check
=
- 0.27 □ 0.3
Check
<
- 0.156 □ 0.16
Check
<
- 0.7 □ 0.68
Check
>
- 0.508 □ 0.5
Check
>
- 0.91 □ 0.909
Check
>
- 1.04 □ 1.4
Check
<
- 2.305 □ 2.35
Check
<
Try this situation 1
Three runners finished a 100m race in 11.45, 11.4, and 11.405 seconds. Who came in first?
Show a worked solution
Answer: The runner with time 11.4 seconds.
Write all times as 11.450, 11.400, 11.405. Smallest time wins: 11.400 < 11.405 < 11.450.
Try this situation 2
Four bottles hold 0.75, 0.7, 0.705, and 0.8 liter. Order the bottles from least to greatest.
Show a worked solution
Answer: 0.7, 0.705, 0.75, 0.8.
Rewrite: 0.700, 0.705, 0.750, 0.800 are already in order.
Fresh questions · saved on this device
Practice this skill
Try a fresh set each time. Answer one question, check your thinking, and read the explanation. If you miss one, return to the visual model and try another round.
Question 1 of 50 correct so far
Session complete
Check what you learned
Answer these five questions on your own. You can review the explanations after you submit and try again whenever you like. This short check is for practice, not a grade.
Practice and finish
Try the linked topic quiz for more practice. If something is tricky, return to the example and look for the step that changes the numbers or representation.
Your checkmark, skill-practice sessions, and best exit-check score are saved on this browser and device. The course page can download a progress report to share with a tutor or teacher.
More Grade 6 resources
Use these free materials if you want another explanation, extra paper practice, or a broader review.