Year 8: Compare a decimal number and a fraction

This cheat sheet helps you compare decimal numbers and fractions.

Converting to a Common Denominator

The easiest way to compare decimals and fractions is to convert them to a common denominator.

Step 1: Find a Common Denominator

The most common denominator is often 100 or 1000. Choose one that makes the numbers easy to work with.

Step 2: Convert the Fraction

Multiply both the numerator and denominator of the fraction by the same number to get a denominator equal to your chosen common denominator.

Example: Convert 0.6 to a fraction.

1. 0.6 = 6/10
2. Divide both by 2: 6/2 = 3 and 10/2 = 5
3. Therefore, 0.6 = 3/5

Step 3: Compare

Now that both are fractions with the same denominator, you can easily compare them. The fraction with the larger numerator is the larger value.

Example: Compare 3/5 and 1/2

1. Convert 1/2 to a fraction with a denominator of 10: 1/2 = 5/10
2. Now compare: 3/5 = 6/10 and 5/10. 6/10 is larger than 5/10.
3. Therefore, 0.6 is larger than 0.5