Comparing Decimals
When comparing decimals, be sure to compare each place value. The symbols, <, > or = may be used to describe the comparison.
Example
Compare 0.50 and 0.250
Solution
First align the decimal points
0.50
0.250
the start from the left and compare the digits until they are different
0.50
0.250
in this case since 5 > 2, therefore 0.50 > 0.250
To order larger groups of numbers, including decimal numbers, repeat the process.
Example
Order 4, 4.32 and 4.317 from greatest to least
Step 1: Align the decimal point, write zeroes if necessary
4.000
4.320
4.317
Step 2: Start from the left and compare the digits
4.000
4.320
4.317
in this case 3 > 0, so 4.000 is the least number
Step 3: Continue comparing
4.320
4.317
in this case 2 > 1, so 4.320 is greater than 4.317, therefore
4.32 > 4.317 > 4