3-Digit / 1-Digit — Multiply & Divide Pathway

Dividing a 3-digit number by 1 digit

  • Use the bus stop method — work from left to right.
  • Divide each digit in turn.
  • If a digit is too small, combine it with the next one.
  • Write the answer on top.

Example: 432 / 4

  1. Step 1: 4 into 4 = 1. Write 1.
  2. Step 2: 4 into 3 = 0, remainder 3. Write 0, carry 3.
  3. Step 3: 4 into 32 = 8. Write 8.
  4. Answer: 108.

Your turn

  • Try: 246 / 3.
  • 3 into 2 does not go. Combine: 3 into 24 = 8.
  • 3 into 6 = 2.
  • Answer: 82.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting to write 0 when the divisor does not fit. If 4 does not go into 3, write 0 and carry the 3.
  • Losing track of carries across three digits. Write each carry clearly.

Real-Life Example

A school packs 432 exercise books into boxes of 4. 432 / 4: 4 into 4 = 1, 4 into 3 = 0 remainder 3 (write 0, carry 3), 4 into 32 = 8. Answer: 108 boxes.

Extra Support Hints

  • Work left to right, one digit at a time.
  • If a digit is too small, combine it with the next digit before dividing.
Start the interactive 3-Digit / 1-Digit lesson →