0.5 as a fraction
0.5 is 5 tenths, so write it as 5/10 and simplify to 1/2.
The answer
0.5 = 1/2
How to write 0.5 as a fraction
Put the digits in a place value chart. The place of the last digit tells you the bottom of the fraction.
| Ones | Tenths |
|---|---|
| 0 | 5 |
The last digit is in the tenths column, so 0.5 is 5 tenths: 5/10.
Simplify by dividing the top and bottom by the same number. In one go, divide by the highest common factor (the biggest whole number that divides both exactly), 5: 5/10 = 1/2.
1 and 2 share no factor except 1, so 1/2 is the simplest form.
As a percentage, 0.5 = 50%: multiply by 100, which moves each digit two places to the left.
To check, divide back: see 1/2 as a decimal and 1/2 as a percentage.
See 1/2
Shade 1/2 on a fraction wall
This wall shows selected denominators: halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, sixths, eighths and tenths. Other fractions on this site may not have a row here. The wall opens with 1/2 shaded in the halves row. Look straight down: the shading ends in exactly the same place in 2/4, 3/6, 4/8 and 5/10, so they are equal to 1/2. Tap other pieces to try more fractions.
A fraction wall from halves to tenths, opening on 1/2.
More decimals as fractions
Questions parents ask
What is 0.5 as a fraction in its simplest form?
0.5 = 5/10 = 1/2. Divide the top and bottom of 5/10 by 5 to get 1/2.
How do you write 0.5 as a fraction?
The last digit of 0.5 is in the tenths column, so write the digits over 10: 5/10. Then simplify if you can.
What is 0.5 as a percentage?
0.5 = 50%. Multiply by 100: the digits move two places to the left.
Continue your maths practice
Explore the diagnostic for another way to practise.