Challenge in Missing Digits: Step-by-Step Example
22 October 2026
When your child faces a tricky question with a missing digit in a decimal, it can feel confusing at first. By breaking the problem into small steps, you help them see exactly where the missing digit goes and how to test what fits.
Worked example
Find the missing digit in 4.3_7 so that the number is between 4.35 and 4.38.
Look at the digits: 4.3_7 means the missing digit is in the hundredths place.
The number must be more than 4.35 and less than 4.38.
Try different digits for the missing place: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
If the missing digit is 5, the number is 4.357. 4.357 is between 4.35 and 4.38.
If the missing digit is 6, the number is 4.367. 4.367 is also between 4.35 and 4.38.
Both 5 and 6 work, but if you need only one digit, choose the smallest that fits.
The correct answer is 5.
Click or tap on the number line to answer
Key insight: After working through this challenge in missing digits, your child will spot which digit makes a decimal fall between two numbers. They are now ready to try more questions just like this.
