Number System: Subtracting Decimals

Subtracting Decimals

Subtracting decimals is easy if you keep your work neat

To subtract decimals, follow these steps:

• Write down the two numbers, one under the other, with the decimal points lined up.
• Add zeros so the numbers have the same length
• Then subtract normally, remembering to put the decimal point in the answer

Example: Subtract 0.03 from 1.1

Line the decimals up:			1.1
		-	0.03
"Pad" with zeros:			1.10
		-	0.03
Subtract:			1.10
		-	0.03
			1.07

Answer: 1.07

So, that was just like 110 - 3 = 107, but with the decimal point in a different position

Example: Calculate 7.005-0.55

Line the decimals up:			7.005
		-	0.55
"Pad" with zeros:			7.005
		-	0.550
Subtract:			7.005
		-	0.550
			6.455

Answer: 6.455

And that was just like 7,005 - 550 = 6,455

Posted in: Number System, Subtracting Decimals