Writing the Value of a Digit in a Decimal Number: Step-by-Step Example
23 October 2026
Understanding decimal place value helps children see how each digit in a number has its own special value, depending on where it sits. For 11+ maths, being able to write the value of a digit in a decimal number is a key skill.
Example question
Write the value of the digit 7 in 3.742.
Step 1: Find where the 7 is in the number. It is in the thousandths place.
Step 2: The thousandths place means 7 parts out of 1,000. Write this as 0.007.
Answer: The value of 7 is 0.007.
| Digit | Place Value | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | Ones | 3 |
| 7 | Thousandths | 0.007 |
| 4 | Tenths | 0.7 |
| 2 | Hundredths | 0.02 |
After working through this example, your child will be able to spot the value of any digit in a decimal number. The same type of question appears in many 11+ practice sheets, so your child can get comfortable with this maths.com uk topic.
