Rounding Decimals
In this lesson, we will look at rounding decimals.
The following diagrams and examples show how to round decimals. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions.
How to round decimals?
The rules for rounding decimals are the same as the rules for whole numbers.
Step 1: Decide on the place the number is to be rounded to.
Step 2: Look at the first digit to the right of that place.
Step 3: If the digit is equal to or more than 5, round up
Step 4: If the digit is less than 5, round down.
Step 5: We may drop the zeros.
Example:
Round 74.862 to the nearest tenths
Solution:
The digit at the tenth place is 8.
The digit to the right of 8 is 6.
Since 6 > 5 we round up.
74.862 rounded to the nearest tenths is 74.9
Example:
Round 74.862 to the nearest hundredths
Solution:
The digit at the hundredth place is 6.
The digit to the right of 6 is 2.
Since 2 < 5 we round down.
74.862 rounded to the nearest hundredths is 74.86
Example:
Round 74.862 to the nearest whole number
Solution:
The digit at the ones place is 4.
The digit to the right of 4 is 8.
Since 8 > 5 we round up.
74.862 rounded to the nearest whole number is 75
This two-part video shows more examples of how to round decimals.
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