Understanding Powers of Ten for 11+ Maths Success
19 October 2026
Understanding powers of ten
A power of ten is simply ten multiplied by itself a certain number of times. For example, 10² means 10 × 10, which equals 100. The small number written above the ten (called the exponent) tells you how many times to multiply ten by itself. Positive exponents make numbers bigger, while negative exponents make them smaller, such as 10⁻² = 0.01.
Multiplying by powers of ten
When you multiply a number by 10, 100, or 1,000, you move the decimal point to the right. For example, 4.6 × 10 = 46, and 4.6 × 100 = 460. Each zero in the power of ten moves the decimal one place further right.
Dividing by powers of ten
Dividing by 10, 100, or 1,000 shifts the decimal point to the left. For instance, 320 ÷ 10 = 32, and 320 ÷ 100 = 3.2. Each zero in the divisor moves the decimal one place to the left.
Key insight: Focus on place value
Understanding how multiplying and dividing by powers of ten changes the position of digits is key. Encourage your child to practise with both whole numbers and decimals, so they see how the digits move and the value changes each time.
Practical examples to try
Give your child quick calculations to reinforce the rules, such as 7.3 × 1,000 or 0.52 ÷ 100. Ask them to explain what happens to the decimal point and why. This builds confidence and helps them spot patterns in their answers.
Tips for steady progress
Encourage regular short practice sessions. Use everyday contexts, like money or measurements, to make the topic feel relevant. Mistakes are part of learning. Focus on understanding, not speed.
