Rounding Numbers

• Rounding numbers is the process of making a number simpler, but keeping its value close to what it was.
• The result of rounding is less precise, but easier to use and understand.
• When rounding to the nearest hundred, look at the tens digit. If 5 or more, round up. If it’s less than 5, round down. For example, 123 rounded to the nearest hundred would be 100.
• When rounding to the nearest ten, look at the units digit. If it is 5 or more, the tens digit gets rounded up. If it’s less than 5, the tens digit stays the same. For example, 34 rounded to the nearest ten would be 30.
• When rounding to the nearest whole number, consider the first digit after the decimal point. If it is 5 or more round up, if it is less than 5 round down. For instance, 4.7 rounded to a whole number would be 5.
• When rounding to the nearest decimal or fraction, look at the digit at the place value you’re rounding to. For example, 2.357 rounded to the nearest tenth would be 2.4.
• Rounding numbers is applied in various situations such as in calculations of large numbers, when precise numbers are not required, or when an approximation is needed for easier calculations.
• One common rule applied in rounding is that if the digit to the right of the rounding digit is 5 or more, the rounding digit rounds up.
• You may use rounding to check if your answers are reasonable in problems where estimating is required. This skill is particularly useful in real-world applications of maths.