Fraction to Decimal Calculator
Convert any fraction to its decimal value and percent equivalent instantly.
How it works
decimal = numerator ÷ denominator
A fraction bar is a division sign in disguise — 3/8 literally means 3 divided by 8. The result either terminates (3/8 = 0.375) or repeats forever (1/3 = 0.333…): it terminates exactly when the simplified denominator has no prime factors other than 2 and 5.
Worked example
3/8: divide 3 by 8 to get 0.375. Multiply by 100 for the percent form, 37.5%. Since 8 = 2×2×2 has only 2s as factors, the decimal stops cleanly instead of repeating.
Frequently asked questions
Which fractions give repeating decimals?
Simplify the fraction, then look at the denominator. If it contains any prime other than 2 or 5 (like 3, 7 or 11), the decimal repeats: 1/3 = 0.333…, 1/7 = 0.142857 repeating.
How exact is the decimal shown?
Terminating decimals like 0.375 are exact. Repeating ones are shown to 10 places, which is closer than almost any practical measurement needs.
How do I convert an improper fraction like 11/4?
The same way — 11 ÷ 4 = 2.75. Improper just means the value is bigger than 1, so the decimal has a whole-number part.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.