What is 3/8 of 5?

Often, in mathematics or everyday life, we need to find a fraction of a given number. For instance, how would you quickly calculate 3/8 of 5? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.

How to calculate 3/8 of 5?

  1. Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 5 × 3 = 15
  2. Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 15/8 = 1.875

Since 15/8 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 1 7/8

How does it work?

The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 3/8 of 5, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.

Consider the following proportion: 3 8 = x 5 (where x represents 3/8 of 5)

  1. Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators: 3 × 5 = 8 x
  2. Which gives: 15 = 8 x
  3. Divide both sides by 8 to isolate x: 15 8 = 8 x 8
  4. Which gives the result: 15 8 = x

Thus, 3/8 of 5 is equal to 15/8 (or 1.875 in its decimal form).