Multiplying decimals means finding the product of numbers that include digits to the right of the decimal point. It is just like multiplying whole numbers, but you place the decimal point correctly in the answer.
When multiplying decimals, you do not have to line up the decimal points. Instead, count how many digits come after the decimal in both factors, then place the decimal in the product accordingly.
Follow these steps to multiply two decimals correctly. The process is similar to whole-number multiplication, with an extra step at the end to place the decimal point.
Be careful when counting decimal places—this determines where the decimal point goes in your final answer.
Let’s multiply 3.2 × 1.5 using the steps we just learned.
Multiplying decimals is the same as multiplying whole numbers, but you must place the decimal correctly in your final answer. Double-check your placement!
When one factor is a whole number and the other is a decimal, multiply as you would with whole numbers, then move the decimal point in the product.
Remember that multiplying by a whole number increases the total value. Always check the reasonableness of your answer using estimation.
Decimals are often used when dealing with money. You might multiply a price by a quantity to find the total cost.
When solving money problems, always include the dollar sign and write your answer to the nearest cent (two decimal places).
Estimation helps you see if your decimal multiplication result makes sense. Round each number to the nearest whole number and multiply to check.
Estimating before and after multiplying helps you catch misplaced decimals or calculation errors.
You can verify your answer by aligning place values and adding partial products when needed.
Multiply 2.3 × 1.2
Careful, neat work helps ensure your decimal placement and total are correct every time.