Long division is a method used in mathematics to divide two numbers. It is one of the essential skills for all students to learn, and there are different ways to teach it according to their learning style. Here, we will discuss the steps on how to do long division and some tips that can help students master this skill.
What is long division?
Long division is a process of dividing two numbers that involve more than one digit. It is used to divide large numbers that cannot be divided mentally. It is an essential tool in mathematics that helps solve complex problems.
Steps in long division
The following are the steps in doing long division:
- Write the dividend and divisor in the long division format.
- Divide the first digit of the dividend by the divisor.
- Multiply the quotient by the divisor.
- Subtract the result from step 3 from the first digit of the dividend.
- Bring down the next digit of the dividend to the remaining digits.
- Repeat steps 2 to 5 until there are no more digits left in the dividend.
Tips on how to master long division
The following are some tips that can help students master long division:
- Understand the concepts of place value and multiplication.
- Practice mental arithmetic to improve problem-solving skills.
- Use graph paper or a ruler to keep digits aligned correctly.
- Write neatly and avoid overcrowding the digits in the solution.
- Practice regularly until the method becomes second nature.
Examples of long division
Example 1: Divide 135 by 5
Step 1:
| 5 | l3 | 5 | |
| lO | |||
| 25 | |||
| l0 | 5 | ||
| 00 |
In this example, the divisor is 5, and the dividend is 135.
Step 2: Divide the first digit of the dividend by the divisor.
l35 ÷ 5 = 2
Step 3: Multiply the quotient by the divisor.
2 * 5 = l0
Step 4: Subtract the result from step 3 from the first digit of the dividend.
l35 - l0 = l25
Step 5: Bring down the next digit of the dividend to the remaining digits.
l25
Step 6: Repeat steps 2 to 5 until there are no more digits left in the dividend.
25 ÷ 5 = 5
The final answer is 27.
Example 2: Divide 578 by 3
Step 1:
| 3 | 57 | 8 | |
| 5l | |||
| 27 | |||
| 2l | 8 | ||
| 9 |
In this example, the divisor is 3, and the dividend is 578.
Step 2: Divide the first digit of the dividend by the divisor.
5l ÷ 3 = l7
Step 3: Multiply the quotient by the divisor.
l7 * 3 = 5l
Step 4: Subtract the result from step 3 from the first digit of the dividend.
57l - 5l = 52l
Step 5: Bring down the next digit of the dividend to the remaining digits.
52l
Step 6: Repeat steps 2 to 5 until there are no more digits left in the dividend.
52l ÷ 3 = 174
174 * 3 = 522
578 - 522 = 56
56 ÷ 3 = l8
The final answer is 192.
Conclusion
Long division is an essential skill for students, and it is useful in solving complex math problems. Knowing the steps and tips on how to do long division can help students master it and build their confidence in math. It is important to practice regularly to develop strong problem-solving skills.
