How do you add decimals with partial sums?

what is a partial sum?

To add decimals using partial sums, follow these steps:

Step 1: Write down the decimal numbers vertically, making sure that the decimal points are in line with each other.

Step 2: Starting from the rightmost digit (the ones place), add up the digits in the same place value column and write the sum below the line.

Step 3: If the sum in any column is greater than 9, carry the tens digit to the next column to the left.

Step 4: Continue adding the digits in the next column, including any carried-over digits, and write the sum below the line.

Step 5: Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have added all the digits in each column.

Step 6: Align the decimal points in the sum and the numbers being added, and write the final sum.

Let's go through an example:

Example: Add the decimals 3.14, 2.5, and 1.27 using partial sums.

3.14
+ 2.5
+ 1.27
__________


Step 1: Write down the decimals vertically, aligning the decimal points.

3.14
+ 2.50
+ 1.27
__________

Step 2: Start by adding the rightmost column, the ones place:

3.14
+ 2.50
+ 1.27
__________
11

Step 3: There are no carried digits in this column, so we move to the next column:

3.14
+ 2.50
+ 1.27
__________
111

Step 4: Add the digits in the tenths place column:

3.14
+ 2.50
+ 1.27
__________
111
.91

Step 5: Add the digits in the hundredths place column:

3.14
+ 2.50
+ 1.27
__________
111
.91
+.01
__________

Step 6: Align the decimal points and write the final sum:

3.14
+ 2.50
+ 1.27
__________
7.91

So, the sum of 3.14, 2.5, and 1.27 is 7.91.