How to Divide by a Two‐Digit Number
Dividing by a two-digit number may seem challenging, but with the right approach and practice, anyone can master it. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to divide by a two-digit number using long division.
Step 1: Understand the Components
Before diving into the process of dividing by a two-digit number, it is essential to understand the components involved in long division. These components are:
– Dividend: The number being divided
– Divisor: The two-digit number you’re dividing by
– Quotient: The result or answer you obtain after division
– Remainder: The leftover value that cannot be evenly divided
Step 2: Set up the Long Division Format
Write down the dividend and divisor in their respective places in the long division format:
_______
Divisor | Dividend
Step 3: Begin Dividing
Start by focusing on the first digit (or first few digits) of the dividend. Is it smaller than, equal to, or larger than the divisor? Proceed accordingly:
– If smaller, move one digit over to the right.
– If equal or larger, continue with dividing.
Step 4: Estimation and Division
Estimate how many times the divisor can fit into the selected digits of the dividend. Write this number as your quotient above those digits.
Multiply your estimation (quotient) by the divisor and write the result beneath those selected dividend digits.
Step 5: Subtract and Drop Down
Subtract the multiplication result from Step 4 from those selected dividend digits. Write down any remaining dividend digits directly below your subtraction results.
Step 6: Repeat Steps 4 and 5
Continue repeating Steps 4 and 5 until there are no more digits remaining in your dividend.
Step 7: Account for Remainders
If there’s still a value left that is smaller than the divisor after dividing all dividend digits, this number is the remainder. Write “R” followed by the remainder next to your quotient.
Step 8: Check Your Answer
To check your answer, multiply your quotient by the divisor and add the remainder if there is one. The result should be equal to the original dividend.
Example:
Let’s divide 825 by 25:
33
__________
25 | 825
1. First three digits (825) are larger than 25.
2. Estimate that 25 can fit into 82 about three times (25 x 3 = 75).
3. Write “3” above the “2” in “825”.
4. Subtract 75 from 82 (which equals 7).
5. Drop down the “5” from “825”.
6. Estimate that 25 can fit into 75 about three times (25 x 3 = 75).
7. Write “3” above the last “5” in “825”.
8. Subtract and no digits remain.
9. The answer is with no remainder:
33
__________
25 | 825
Now you know how to divide by a two-digit number using long division! With consistent practice, you’ll quickly improve your skills and feel confident when tackling these problems in the future.