Short Division Basic RESOURCE (FREE DOWNLOAD)

Short Division Method: How to Do Short Division with Examples

Short division is a basic number maths skill for the KS3 and KS4 curriculum. This is a simple method for dividing large numbers easily and quickly. It is a simplified and more efficient version of long division. This process is especially useful when dividing numbers without a calculator.

Our teaching resource will explain how to do short division with easy-to-understand step-by-step examples.

What is Short Division?

We can use the short division method as a quick way to divide numbers by single-digit or small two-digit divisors. This process involves writing the division in a compact form while keeping track of remainders. Gaining a solid understanding of this process helps students master basic division skills.

How to Do Short Division: Step-by-Step Guide

Here are two worked examples showing the bus stop method in action:

Example 1: \(78 \div 2\)

1. Set up the division using the bus stop method:

  ___2 | 78

2. Divide the first digit (7) by 2:

2 goes into 7 three times (3), remainder 1.
Write 3 above the 7 and carry the remainder 1 to the next digit.

3. Divide the next part (18) by 2:

2 goes into 18 exactly 9 times.
Write 9 above the 8.

Final answer: \(78 \div 2 = 39\)

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Example 2: \(72 \div 9\)

1. Set up the division:

  ___9 | 72

2. Divide the first digit (7) by 9:

9 doesn’t go into 7 (0 times), so carry the 7 over to the next digit (72).

3. Divide 72 by 9:

9 goes into 72 exactly 8 times.
Write 8 above the 2.

Final answer: \(72 \div 9 = 8\)

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Why Use the Short Division Method?

• It's faster than long division for simple calculations.
• It improves mental maths fluency.
• It helps divide large numbers accurately without a calculator.

Common Mistakes in Short Division

Here are some common mistakes students should watch out for:

• Forgetting to carry remainders: Always move the remainder to the next digit.
• Incorrect alignment: Ensure digits are written in the correct place value column.