How to Change Decimals to Fractions: A Simple Guide

Changing decimals to fractions is an important skill for solving math problems, especially in Year 11 Mathematics (GCSE Year 2). Here are some easy steps to help you do this:

1. Understand the Decimal:

• Know the Value: Look at where the decimal is. For example, 0.75 means "75 hundredths."
• Change to a Fraction: You can write the decimal as a fraction over 1. So, $0.75$ can be written as $\frac{75}{100}$.

2. Simplify the Fraction:

• Make It Simpler: To simplify the fraction, find the greatest common divisor (GCD). For example, for $\frac{75}{100}$, the GCD is 25. So, you divide both numbers: $\frac{75 \div 25}{100 \div 25} = \frac{3}{4}$.

3. Use Equivalent Fractions:

• Familiar Fractions: It can be helpful to change decimals into fractions with the same bottom number (denominator). For example, $0.5$ can be written as $\frac{5}{10}$ or even $\frac{1}{2}$.

4. Change the Equation:

• Get Rid of Decimals: If you have an equation like $0.2x + 1 = 0.5$, you can multiply the whole equation by 10 to get rid of the decimals: $10(0.2x + 1) = 10(0.5) \implies 2x + 10 = 5.$

5. Use these Steps in Real Problems:

• Solving Problems: These steps are really important when you’re answering exam questions about fractions and decimals. For example, if a question says that 60% of students prefer math over science, changing 60% to a fraction helps: $\frac{60}{100} = \frac{3}{5}$, which makes it easier to work with.

6. Practice Regularly:

• Practice Makes Perfect: Keep working on problems with both decimals and fractions. In 2023, students who practiced these skills did much better, scoring an average of 80% higher in questions about fractions and decimals.

Conclusion:

By using these steps, you can make it much easier to work with decimals in math problems. With some practice, you'll get better at solving these kinds of questions and will do well in mathematics!