Fractions and number sense

How to Convert a Decimal to a Fraction

Turn a decimal result into a reduced fraction, recognize exact terminating decimals and understand when the calculator is showing an approximation.

Worked example: convert 0.375

Goal: write 0.375 as a fraction.

0.375 = 375/1000 = 3/8
  1. Open the scientific calculator and enter 0.375.
  2. Press =, then choose Show fraction.
  3. The result is reduced to 3/8.

Why the method works

A terminating decimal has a place-value denominator. Three decimal places means thousandths, so 0.375 is initially 375/1000. Dividing numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor reduces the fraction.

Mixed-number example

2.625 = 2 + 625/1000 = 2 5/8

The calculator displays both the improper fraction and mixed-number form when appropriate.

Repeating and irrational decimals

A displayed decimal may be rounded. The fraction button uses a continued-fraction approximation, so inspect the denominator and decide whether it makes sense for the original problem. For example, 0.333333333 is likely intended as 1/3, while π is not exactly equal to any fraction.

Practice

Convert 1.875 to a mixed number.

Show answer

1.875 = 1 7/8.

Try the method now

Open the calculator in a separate tab and reproduce the worked example.

Open Calculator

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Reviewed July 17, 2026.