Decimal Operations Made Simple
Adding and subtracting decimals is actually dead easy once you know the trick. Just line up the decimal points vertically and add or subtract normally, like you would with whole numbers. If one number has fewer decimal places, imagine zeros at the end to help you line everything up properly.
For multiplying decimals, here's the secret: temporarily ignore the decimal points and multiply the numbers as if they're whole numbers. Count how many digits come after all the decimal points in your original numbers, then place the decimal point in your answer so it has the same total number of decimal places.
Dividing decimals follows a similar pattern. Make both numbers into whole numbers by moving the decimal points the same number of places to the right, then divide normally. This keeps the answer exactly the same whilst making the calculation much simpler.
Quick Tip: Always double-check your decimal point placement - it's the most common mistake students make, but it's easily fixed once you spot it!
When using BIDMAS with decimals, follow the exact same order as with whole numbers: Brackets, Indices, Division/Multiplication (left to right), Addition/Subtraction (left to right). The decimal points don't change the rules at all.