Divide by 5 in Seconds: Easy Math Trick

Dividing by 5 can seem daunting, especially when you’re trying to do it quickly in your head. But there’s a simple trick that can make this task a breeze! This method involves a straightforward mental calculation that can be performed in seconds. Not only is this a helpful tool for improving your mental math skills, but it can also be applied to various mathematical problems, making your calculations faster and more efficient.

The Trick: Doubling and Halving

Here’s how it works:

1. Double the number you want to divide by 5. For example, if you want to divide 18 by 5, double 18 to get 36.
2. Divide the doubled number by 10. In our example, divide 36 by 10, which equals 3.6.

That’s it! The result you get is the answer to your original division problem. So, 18 divided by 5 equals 3.6.

Why Does This Work?

This trick is based on a simple mathematical principle. Dividing by 5 is the same as multiplying by 1/5. Multiplying by 1/5 is the same as doubling the number and then dividing by 10. Let’s break it down:

• 1/5 = 2/10 (multiply both numerator and denominator by 2)
• Doubling a number is the same as multiplying by 2.
• Dividing by 10 is the same as multiplying by 1/10.

Therefore, dividing by 5 is equivalent to doubling the number and then multiplying by 1/10, which is the same as dividing by 10.

Examples

Let’s try a few more examples to solidify your understanding:

• Divide 24 by 5:
  • Double 24: 24 x 2 = 48
  • Divide by 10: 48 / 10 = 4.8

  Therefore, 24 divided by 5 equals 4.8.

• Divide 35 by 5:
  • Double 35: 35 x 2 = 70
  • Divide by 10: 70 / 10 = 7

  Therefore, 35 divided by 5 equals 7.

• Divide 60 by 5:
  • Double 60: 60 x 2 = 120
  • Divide by 10: 120 / 10 = 12

  Therefore, 60 divided by 5 equals 12.

Practice Makes Perfect

The best way to master this trick is to practice it regularly. You can start by using simple numbers and gradually increase the complexity. With a little practice, you’ll be able to divide by 5 in your head in seconds!

Applications

This trick can come in handy in various situations, including:

• Mental Math: Improve your mental math skills and impress your friends with your quick calculations.
• Everyday Calculations: Calculate discounts, split bills, or figure out proportions in recipes.
• Mathematical Problems: Simplify calculations in various mathematical problems, especially those involving fractions and decimals.

So next time you need to divide by 5, remember this easy trick and make your calculations a breeze!