How to Round a Number to the Nearest Ten?
Rounding means simplifying a number by writing it with fewer significant digits while keeping its value close to what it originally was.
A rounded number is less precise (introduces an error) but easier to use in practice.
Most often, rounding a number to the nearest ten refers to mathematical rounding to the nearest ten.
Mathematical rounding to the nearest ten means rounding a number to the nearest ten, where the absolute difference with this number is minimal.
Rules for Rounding to the Nearest Ten
Let’s consider the rules for mathematical rounding to the nearest ten in a simple and accessible way:
- Tens place:
- remains unchanged if the units place digit is less than 5. (0; 1; 2; 3; 4)
- increases by 1 if the units place digit is 5 or greater. (5; 6; 7; 8; 9)
Example:
4673.45785 ≈ 4670 — rounding to the nearest ten
7 — tens place of the number;
3 — units place of the number.
Let’s show with simple examples:
Round the number 317.3 to the nearest ten.
317.3 ≈ 320 Because the units place digit 7 is greater than 5
Round the number 1222 to the nearest ten.
1222 ≈ 1220 Because the units place digit 2 is less than 5
Round the number 1235 to the nearest ten.
1235 ≈ 1240 Because the units place digit 5 is equal to 5