Place value example
22 October 2026
Understanding place value helps children read and write big numbers with confidence. Each digit in a number has its own special value, depending on where it sits.
Worked example
What is the value of each digit in the number 4,372,915?
4 is in the millions place. 4 × 1,000,000 = 4,000,000
3 is in the hundred thousands place. 3 × 100,000 = 300,000
7 is in the ten thousands place. 7 × 10,000 = 70,000
2 is in the thousands place. 2 × 1,000 = 2,000
9 is in the hundreds place. 9 × 100 = 900
1 is in the tens place. 1 × 10 = 10
5 is in the ones place. 5 × 1 = 5
The correct answer is: 4,000,000 + 300,000 + 70,000 + 2,000 + 900 + 10 + 5 = 4,372,915.
| Digit | Place | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | Millions | 4,000,000 |
| 3 | Hundred thousands | 300,000 |
| 7 | Ten thousands | 70,000 |
| 2 | Thousands | 2,000 |
| 9 | Hundreds | 900 |
| 1 | Tens | 10 |
| 5 | Ones | 5 |
Now your child can spot the value of each digit in a large number. This skill makes it easier to read, write and break down numbers in 11+ maths questions.
