Decimal Operations for Kids: Add, Subtract and Multiply Decimals (Grade 6 Math)

Hi, I'm Luna from DoodleBeez. Today we are adding, subtracting and multiplying decimals. The big secret is the decimal point. Keep track of where it goes, and decimals are as easy as whole numbers.

To add decimals, line up the decimal points first. Four point seven plus two point five. Seven tenths plus five tenths is twelve tenths, so write two and carry one. The answer is seven point two.

To subtract, line the points up again. Eight point three minus five point six. We cannot take six tenths from three tenths, so we regroup one whole as ten tenths. Thirteen tenths minus six tenths is seven tenths. The answer is two point seven.

When the decimals have different lengths, fill the empty place with a zero. Three point five becomes three point five zero. Now add one point two five, and the answer is four point seven five.

To multiply, forget the point for a moment. Twenty four times three is seventy two. Two point four has one decimal place, so the answer needs one decimal place too. Two point four times three is seven point two.

Always check with an estimate. Two point four is close to two and a half. Two and a half times three is seven and a half. Our answer, seven point two, is close to that, so it makes sense.

Now it's your turn. What is one point seven times four? Pause and try. Seventeen times four is sixty eight. One point seven has one decimal place, so the answer is six point eight.

Great job! Remember, line up the decimal points to add and subtract, and fill empty places with zeros. To multiply, work like whole numbers, then put the point back. Practice decimal sums in Middle School Math at doodlebeez.com. See you next time!