Worked example 1
Multiply 3.6 × 0.7.
Ignore decimals: 36 × 7 = 252. Total decimal places: 1 + 1 = 2. Place the decimal: 2.52.
Answer: 2.52
Grade 6 Math · Topic 20
Multiplying Decimals
To multiply decimals, ignore the decimal points first and multiply as if they were whole numbers. Then count the total decimal places in both original numbers and place the decimal point that many places from the right of your answer.
Lesson alignment: 6.NS.B.3 · Take your time. You can return to this lesson whenever you need it.
Explore visually
Multiply decimals with an area model
The overlap of tenths along the two sides counts the product in hundredths.
Think first: What unit will the overlapping tenths represent in the product?
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
Multiply 0.25 × 0.4.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: 25 × 4 = 100. Total decimal places: 2 + 1 = 3. So move the decimal 3 places from the right of 100: 0.100 = 0.1.
Answer: 0.1
Try a few on your own
Work these on paper first. Open “Check” when you are ready to compare your answer.
- 0.5 × 0.6 =
Check
0.30
- 1.2 × 0.3 =
Check
0.36
- 2.4 × 1.5 =
Check
3.6
- 0.07 × 0.9 =
Check
0.063
- 3.6 × 0.04 =
Check
0.144
- 5.2 × 0.25 =
Check
1.3
- 0.15 × 1.6 =
Check
0.24
- 12.4 × 0.05 =
Check
0.62
Try this situation 1
A bag of rice weighs 2.4 kg. How many kilograms do 5.5 bags weigh?
Show a worked solution
Answer: 13.2 kg.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: 2.4 × 5.5 = 13.20. (24 × 55 = 1320; two decimal places.)
Try this situation 2
Gas costs $3.45 per gallon. How much do 4.2 gallons cost?
Show a worked solution
Answer: $14.49.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: 3.45 × 4.2. 345 × 42 = 14,490. Three decimal places: 14.490 = $14.49.
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.
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More Grade 6 resources
Use these free materials if you want another explanation, extra paper practice, or a broader review.