Place Value

 

A decimal is a fractional number and is indicated by digits after a period which is called a decimal point.

Tenths have one digit after the decimal point. The decimal 0.8 is pronounced "eight tenths" or "zero point eight". It is equal to the fraction 8/10.

Hundredths have two digits after the decimal point. The decimal 0.36 is pronounced "thirty-six hundredths" or "zero point thirty-six". It is equal to the fraction 36/100.

Thousandths follow a similar pattern. They have three digits after the decimal point. The decimal 0.749 is pronounced "seven hundred forty-nine thousandths" or "zero point seven four nine".

Ten thousandths have four digits after the decimal point.

There may be zeros after the decimal point. The decimal 0.064 is pronounced "sixty-four thousandths" or "zero point zero six four".