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Open calculator →Decimal to Fraction Calculator
Use your own numbers after reviewing the formula and worked example.
Quick answer
A terminating decimal can be written over a power of ten based on its number of decimal places.
Formula or method
For d decimal places: numerator = digits without decimal; denominator = 10d
Keep units, percentages and time periods consistent. The formula is useful as a transparent check on the calculator result and helps explain why changing one input changes the answer.
Step-by-step
- Count decimal places.
- Write the digits as the numerator.
- Use 10, 100, 1000, etc. as denominator.
- Reduce by the greatest common factor.
Worked example
0.375 = 375/1000 = 3/8 after reduction.
How to interpret the result
Repeating decimals need a different algebraic method or a rational approximation.
When the answer is used for a purchase, loan, payroll decision, construction order, school grade, health estimate or other real-world choice, verify the assumptions that matter in that context. Accurate arithmetic still depends on accurate inputs.
Common mistakes
- Always using 10 as denominator.
- Treating a rounded repeating decimal as exact.
- Failing to simplify.
Frequently asked questions
What is 0.25 as a fraction?
1/4.
What is 0.125?
1/8.
Can every terminating decimal be a fraction?
Yes.