Worked example 1
Divide 7.2 ÷ 4.
Keep the decimal point lined up in the quotient. 7 ÷ 4 = 1 remainder 3. Bring down 2: 32 ÷ 4 = 8. Result: 1.8.
Answer: 1.8
Grade 6 Math · Topic 21
Dividing Decimals by Whole Numbers
When you divide a decimal by a whole number, set up long division as usual. The only new rule: place the decimal point in the quotient directly above the decimal point in the dividend. Then divide as if it were a regular division problem.
Lesson alignment: 6.NS.B.2 · 6.NS.B.3 · Take your time. You can return to this lesson whenever you need it.
Explore visually
Track each place-value step in division
Adjust the dividend and divisor. Estimate, divide each place, and check the quotient by multiplication.
Think first: Predict what will change when you adjust one value, then use the model to check your idea.
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.
Grade 6 core skill · 6.NS.B.2
Build the decimal algorithm on whole-number division
Before placing a decimal point in a decimal quotient, use the standard division steps with whole numbers: divide, multiply, subtract, bring down, and repeat. Each quotient digit belongs above the place-value digit being divided.
Example: 1,248 ÷ 6
12 ÷ 6 = 2; subtract 12. Bring down 4. Then 4 ÷ 6 = 0; subtract 0. Bring down 8. Finally, 48 ÷ 6 = 8.
1,248 ÷ 6 = 208
Estimate first: 1,200 ÷ 6 = 200. Check: 208 × 6 = 1,248.
A zero can be a necessary quotient digit: leaving it out changes the place value. For 1,248 ÷ 6, the quotient is 208, not 28.
Quick check: What is 936 ÷ 4?
4 goes into 9 two times (remainder 1); bring down 3 to make 13, which gives 3 remainder 1; bring down 6 to make 16, which gives 4. The quotient is 234; 234 × 4 = 936.
Follow the worked examples
Read each step, then cover the explanation and see if you can explain why it works.
Worked example 2
Divide 6.5 ÷ 4.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: 6 ÷ 4 = 1 R 2. Decimal up; bring down 5: 25 ÷ 4 = 6 R 1. Add a zero: 10 ÷ 4 = 2 R 2. Add another zero: 20 ÷ 4 = 5. Result: 1.625.
Answer: 1.625
Try a few on your own
Work these on paper first. Open “Check” when you are ready to compare your answer.
- 4.8 ÷ 2 =
Check
2.4
- 6.3 ÷ 3 =
Check
2.1
- 9.6 ÷ 4 =
Check
2.4
- 7.5 ÷ 5 =
Check
1.5
- 12.8 ÷ 8 =
Check
1.6
- 15.6 ÷ 6 =
Check
2.6
- 21.7 ÷ 7 =
Check
3.1
- 100.5 ÷ 5 =
Check
20.1
Try this situation 1
Four friends share a restaurant bill of $47.60 equally. How much does each person pay?
Show a worked solution
Answer: $11.90.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: 47.60 ÷ 4 = 11.90. Long-divide with the decimal directly above.
Try this situation 2
A 6-pack of juice boxes weighs 2.34 kg. What is the weight of one juice box?
Show a worked solution
Answer: 0.39 kg.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: 2.34 ÷ 6 = 0.39.
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.