Like the fraction, a decimal is just part of a number. In fact, we can represent a decimal as a fraction. For example, seven tenths can be represented in decimal form as 0.7 and in fraction form as 7/10. Both represent the exact same value.
Unlike fractions, though, decimals have a set of very specific names based on place value: tenths, hundredths, thousandths, etc. Fractions can be halves, thirds, fourths, thirty-sevenths, etc. We name decimals by saying the number represented and the place value of the digit farthest to the right. For example, 0.82 is read as “eighty-two hundredths”. 1.387 would be read as “one and three hundred eighty-seven thousandths”.
All decimals can be rewritten in fraction form (this is sometimes easier when working certain problems). You simply write the number in the numerator and the place value in the denominator. For example, 0.67 (sixty-seven hundredths) becomes 67/100. 2.45 becomes 2 45/100. Then, you reduce the fraction is necessary or possible. In the second example, the fraction simplifies, leaving us with 2 9/20.
Decimals aren’t any more scary than fractions. Just remember they’re just part of a number.
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