How to convert a fraction to a decimal
To convert a fraction to a decimal, divide the numerator by the denominator. The numerator is the top number and the denominator is the bottom number.
Decimal = Numerator ÷ Denominator
Example: 4/5 = 4 ÷ 5 = 0.8
For example, 3/4 converts to 0.75 because 3 divided by 4 equals 0.75. You can use this calculator to convert proper fractions, improper fractions, and mixed numbers to decimal form.
Examples of fractions as decimals
1/2 = 0.5
1/4 = 0.25
3/4 = 0.75
1/5 = 0.2
2/3 = 0.666...
5/4 = 1.25
Proper fractions have a decimal value between 0 and 1, while improper fractions can produce a decimal greater than 1. For example, 5/4 = 1.25.
Convert a mixed number to a decimal
A mixed number contains a whole number and a fraction, such as 2 1/2. Convert the fractional part to a decimal and add it to the whole number.
2 1/2 = 2 + (1 ÷ 2) = 2.5
3 1/4 = 3 + (1 ÷ 4) = 3.25
You can also convert the mixed number to an improper fraction first and then divide the numerator by the denominator. For calculations involving multiple fractions, use the Fraction Calculator.
Terminating and repeating decimals
Some fractions produce a decimal that ends after a finite number of digits. These are called terminating decimals. For example, 3/4 = 0.75.
Other fractions produce repeating decimals. For example, 1/3 = 0.333..., where the 3 continues indefinitely. A repeating decimal cannot be written completely as a finite decimal, so the calculator displays a limited number of decimal places.
3/4 = 0.75 (terminating)
1/3 = 0.333... (repeating)
2/7 = 0.285714... (repeating)
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert a fraction to a decimal?
Divide the numerator by the denominator. For example, 4/5 = 4 ÷ 5 = 0.8. The same method works for proper and improper fractions.
What is 1/3 as a decimal?
1/3 = 0.333..., a repeating decimal. The 3 continues indefinitely, so it cannot be represented completely as a finite decimal.
What is 3/4 as a decimal?
3/4 = 0.75. Divide 3 by 4 to get 0.75. This is a terminating decimal because the decimal representation ends.
What is 1/2 as a decimal?
1/2 = 0.5. Divide the numerator, 1, by the denominator, 2, to get the decimal value.
What is 5/4 as a decimal?
5/4 = 1.25. Because the numerator is larger than the denominator, 5/4 is an improper fraction and its decimal value is greater than 1.
Can I convert a mixed number to a decimal?
Yes. Convert the fractional part to a decimal and add it to the whole number. For example, 2 1/2 = 2 + 0.5 = 2.5.
What is the difference between a terminating and repeating decimal?
A terminating decimal ends after a finite number of digits, such as 3/4 = 0.75. A repeating decimal continues indefinitely with a repeating pattern, such as 1/3 = 0.333....