Detailed instructions on how to write & read decimal numbers in English

Decimal numbers in English have a rather simple reading method, however, you also need to remember the reading rules to be as accurate as possible. Below are the ways to read decimal numbers in English that PREP has summarized. Please save and practice with exercises to master reading decimal numbers!

I. What are decimal numbers in English?

Decimal numbers include finite decimal numbers and infinite decimal numbers. In infinite decimal numbers there are two types, recurring decimals (with repeating number groups) and non-recurring decimals (with numbers, number groups that do not repeat).

Decimal numbers in English include the integer part and the decimal part, separated by a decimal point. The integer part is before the decimal point and the decimal part is after the decimal point. For example:

• 3.7: between 3 and 7 is a "." (decimal point), in which the integer is 3 and the decimal is 7.
• 3.5 is a finite decimal number.
• 3.5656... is a recurring infinite decimal number.
• 3.6789... is a non-recurring infinite decimal number.

Decimal numbers frequently appear in graphs, charts, and statistics in Writing Task 1 or topics related to mathematics in IELTS Speaking such as currency, mathematical concepts, and quantifiable objects. In the process of learning how to do IELTS Writing Task 1 and Speaking, it's crucial to comprehensively grasp how to read decimal numbers and other number forms, hence a better grasp of lectures, particularly those delivered by foreign instructors as well as application of these skills in tests.

In addition, decimal numbers are employed in prices, test scores, then we need to grasp how to read decimal numbers in English.

II. A comprehensive way to read decimal numbers in English

Here's a comprehensive summary outlining the various methods on reading and writing decimal numbers in English: common reading method, reading method for monetary amount, and reading method in special cases.

1. Common reading and writing methods for finite decimal numbers

The reading method is quite simple as follows: 

Integer part + point + decimal part. 

2. Reading and writing method for the monetary amount

The reading method for monetary amount in English is as followed:

Integer + currency unit 1 + and + decimal part + currency 2 

In which:

• Currency unit 1: dollar, pound, euro.
• Currency unit 2 (smaller than unit 1): cent, pence. 

Currency unit conversion: 

• 1 dollar = 100 cents.
• 1 euro = 100 cents.
• 1 pound = 100 pences.

For example: 

• $16.81  Sixteen dollars and eighty-one cents.
• $50.79  fifty dollars and seventy-nine cents.

3. Reading and writing method in special cases (infinite decimal numbers and negative numbers) 

3.1. Infinite decimal numbers 

There are two types of infinite decimal numbers, recurring decimals (with repeating digits) and non-recurring decimals (with non-repeating digits). Specific reading methods are as follows:

3.2. Negative decimal number

For negative decimal numbers, add "negative" in front. For example: 

• – 0.45 is read as negative zero point four five.
• – 1.56 is read as negative one point five six. 
• – 1.33333… is read as negative one point three recurring.

III. Exercises on how to write and read decimal numbers in English (with answers)

Below are some exercises on how to read decimal numbers in English for you to refer to and practice:

Exercise 1: Write the reading for the following decimal numbers: 

• 0.56
• 3.678
• 4.7777…
• 1.1234…
• 1029.6
• $0.5 
• £790.9

Keys:

• One point five six.
• Three point six seven eight .
• Four point seven recurring / four point seven seven seven seven so on.
• One point one two three four so on.
• A thousand and twenty nine point six.
• 50 cents.
• Seven hundred and ninety pounds and ninety pences/pennies.

Exercise 2: Write the decimal numbers based on the reading

• Two hundred and fifty-eight point five six.
• Thirty-five point two six.
• Zero point nine.
• Zero point zero six/ point zero six.
• One point seven recurring.

Keys: 

• 258.56
• 35.26
• 0.9
• 0.06
• 1.777…

Above is a complete guide to reading decimal numbers in English that you should remember. Decimal numbers often come up in everyday conversations as well as work and study environments, so be sure to focus on pronouncing them correctly. If you're practicing English pronunciation for IELTS Speaking, check out Prep's IELTS exam preparation course right away.