How to Divide Decimals by Whole Numbers and Decimals

Sheena Doria

This comprehensive math tutorial provides a clear, step-by-step guide on how to divide decimals using long division. The video begins by reviewing the fundamental terminology of division—identifying the dividend, divisor, quotient, and remainder—before progressing through four distinct problem types involving decimals. An animated teacher avatar guides viewers through the specific algorithmic steps required when the decimal is in the divisor versus when it is only in the dividend. The content explores key procedural themes such as shifting decimal points to create whole number divisors, placing the decimal point correctly in the quotient, and annexing zeros to the dividend when necessary to complete a calculation. The video uses distinct visual cues, such as yellow arrows and color-coded numbers, to demonstrate exactly how and why numbers change during the setup process of long division. For educators, this video serves as an excellent instructional tool for 5th and 6th-grade students learning operations with decimals. It is particularly useful for visualizing the abstract concept of "moving the decimal," transforming it into a concrete, repeatable procedure. The clear separation of different case scenarios allows teachers to assign specific segments based on student needs, making it valuable for both initial instruction and remedial review of long division algorithms.