Put decimal numbers in order

key notes:

Understanding Decimal Numbers:

A decimal number has two parts: the whole number part and the fractional part, separated by a decimal point.

For example, in 3.56, 3 is the whole number, and .56 is the fractional part

Comparing Decimal Numbers:

To compare decimal numbers, first compare the digits in the whole number part. If they are the same, move to the digits after the decimal point.

Example: Compare 4.5 and 4.75.

• Both have the same whole number (4), so compare the decimal parts: 5 and 75.
• Since 5 is smaller than 75, 4.5 < 4.75.

3. Order Decimal Numbers from Smallest to Largest:

Write the decimal numbers in a column aligned by the decimal point.

Start by comparing the whole number part.

If the whole numbers are the same, compare the digits after the decimal point, moving from left to right.

Example: Order the following decimal numbers from smallest to largest: 3.2, 3.12, 3.08.

• First compare the whole numbers: all are 3.
• Then compare the tenths: 2, 1, and 0.
• The order is 3.08, 3.12, 3.2.

Using Place Value to Compare:

To compare decimal numbers accurately, focus on each place value starting from the tenths, hundredths, thousandths, etc.

Example: Compare 5.456 and 5.54.

• First compare the whole numbers: both are 5.
• Then compare the tenths: both have 4.
• Compare the hundredths: 5 and 5 are equal.
• Finally, compare the thousandths: 6 and 0.
• Therefore, 5.456 < 5.54.

Practice Ordering Decimal Numbers:

When given a list of decimal numbers, order them by comparing the whole number part first, then the decimal part.

Example: Arrange 6.82, 6.8, 6.87 in order:

• The whole number part is the same (6).
• The decimal parts: 82, 8, 87.
• Order: 6.8, 6.82, 6.87.

Learn with an example

let’s practice: