Fraction to Decimal
Bridging the gap between two worlds of math. Convert fractions to precise decimals and back again with a single click.
The Language of Numbers
In the world of mathematics, the same value can be dressed in different outfits. "One half" looks like 1/2 to a carpenter but 0.5 to an engineer. While they mean exactly the same thing, converting between them isn't always intuitive. Our Fraction to Decimal Calculator acts as a universal translator, ensuring you always have the number format you need for the task at hand.
Why Convert?
Fractions are precise, but decimals are practical.
When to use Fractions
Cooking & Construction. Measuring cups come in 1/4 and 1/3 sizes. Tape measures have ticks for 1/16th of an inch. Fractions are easier to visualize in physical space.
When to use Decimals
Money & Science. You don't pay $10 and 1/2 dollars; you pay $10.50. Decimals are essential for calculations, comparisons, and digital data entry.
The Conversion Secret
A fraction bar is literally just a division symbol.
Similarly, to convert a decimal to a fraction, you put the digits over their place value. For 0.75, the 5 is in the "hundredths" place, so it becomes 75/100, which simplifies to 3/4.
Woodworking
Your plans say "0.375 inches" but your drill bits are fractions. Convert 0.375 to find out you need the 3/8" bit.
Baking Scaling
A recipe calls for 1/3 cup of sugar, but you want to make 2.5 times the batch. It's often easier to do (0.333 * 2.5) = 0.833, then find the closest fraction.
Stock Market
Historically, stocks were priced in fractions (e.g., $50 1/8). While modern markets use decimals, some legacy financial contracts still use eighths or thirty-seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some decimals go on forever?
This happens when the divisor (denominator) is not a factor of the base-10 number system. 10 is made of 2 and 5. So only denominators made of 2s and 5s (like 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 20) terminate. Numbers like 3, 7, and 9 create repeating decimals.
What is a Mixed Number?
A mixed number combines a whole integer and a fraction, like 1 ½. As a decimal, this is simply 1.5. In an "Improper Fraction" form, it would be 3/2.
How precise is this calculator?
JavaScript uses floating-point math, which is precise enough for almost all engineering and daily needs (approx 15-17 decimal places). However, for scientific constants like Pi, you need specialized software.
Educational Use
This tool is designed for quick conversions and homework help. Always double-check critical measurements for construction or engineering.
Data Privacy
We do not store your calculations. This tool runs entirely in your browser.