Dividing a 2- or 3-digit number by 33 1/3

1. Select a 2-digit number (progress to larger ones).
2. Multiply it by 3.
3. Move the decimal point 2 places to the left.

   Example:

1. The 2-digit number chosen to multiply by 33 1/3 is 46.
2. Multiply by 3: 3 x 46 = 3(40 + 6) = 120 + 18 = 138
3. Move the decimal point 2 places to the left: 1.38
4. So 46 divided by 33 1/3 = 1.38.
   (If you divide by 33.3 using a calculator, you will not get the exact answer.)

   See the pattern?

1. If the 3-digit number chosen to multiply by 33 1/3 is 650:
2. Multiply by 3: 3 x (600 + 50) = 1800 + 150 = 1950
3. Move the decimal point 2 places to the left: 19.50
4. So 650 divided by 33 1/3 = 19.5.

Practice multiplying left to right and this procedure will become an easy one - and you will get exact answers, too.