Short Division: A Simple Guide

Short division is a simplified method of dividing numbers, especially useful for smaller divisors. It’s a handy tool for understanding the division process and can be applied to various problems in everyday life.

Understanding the Basics

Imagine you have 12 cookies and want to share them equally among 3 friends. Short division helps you figure out how many cookies each friend gets.

Here’s how short division works:

1. Set up the problem: Write the divisor (the number you’re dividing by) outside the division symbol and the dividend (the number being divided) inside.
2. Divide the first digit: Divide the first digit of the dividend by the divisor. Write the quotient (the result of the division) above the first digit of the dividend.
3. Multiply and subtract: Multiply the quotient by the divisor and write the product below the first digit of the dividend. Subtract the product from the first digit.
4. Bring down the next digit: Bring down the next digit of the dividend next to the remainder.
5. Repeat steps 2-4: Repeat steps 2-4 with the new number formed by the remainder and the brought-down digit. Continue this process until all digits of the dividend have been used.

Example: Dividing 12 by 3

Let’s illustrate with our cookie example:

	4
3	12
	12
	—
	0

Here’s how we solved it:

• We divided 1 by 3. Since 3 doesn’t go into 1, we look at the first two digits, 12.
• 3 goes into 12 four times (3 x 4 = 12), so we write 4 above the 2 in the dividend.
• We multiply 4 by 3 (4 x 3 = 12) and write 12 below the 12 in the dividend.
• We subtract 12 from 12, leaving 0.
• Since there are no more digits in the dividend, we’ve finished the division. Our answer is 4, meaning each friend gets 4 cookies.

Practice Makes Perfect

Short division is a skill that improves with practice. Start with simple problems and gradually increase the complexity. You can use online resources, textbooks, or even create your own practice problems. Remember to break down the steps and focus on understanding the process. Soon, you’ll be a short division master!

Conclusion

Short division is a valuable tool for understanding the division concept. By following the steps and practicing regularly, you can master this essential skill and confidently tackle division problems in various contexts.