How to use
- Type a fraction such as 7/8 or a mixed number such as 2 3/4.
- Read the decimal and percent.
- Expand the steps to follow the long division and see where digits start to repeat.
Worked example: 5/12 by long division
5 ÷ 12 = 0 remainder 5. Bring down a zero: 50 ÷ 12 = 4 remainder 2. Then 20 ÷ 12 = 1 remainder 8. Then 80 ÷ 12 = 6 remainder 8.
The remainder 8 has appeared before, so the digit 6 repeats forever: 5/12 = 0.41(6) = 41.67%.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert a fraction to a decimal?
Divide the numerator by the denominator. 7/8 = 7 ÷ 8 = 0.875.
What do the parentheses mean?
The digits inside repeat forever: 0.(3) is 0.3333… and 0.41(6) is 0.41666….
Which fractions terminate?
Those whose simplified denominator has only the prime factors 2 and 5, such as 3/4, 7/20 and 9/40. Everything else repeats.
How do I convert to a percent?
Multiply the decimal by 100. 7/8 = 0.875 = 87.5%.
Can I enter a mixed number?
Yes, 2 3/4 becomes 2.75.
How many decimal places are shown?
Up to 6 for non-repeating results; repeating results use the exact parenthesis notation.