Simply add a zero!

Need to multiply a whole number or integer by 10?  It doesn't get much easier than this!  Simply place a 0 at the end of that number.

Here are a few examples to consider.

What is the product of 12 x 10?
Solution: Place a zero at the end of 12.  120 is our answer.

Let's look at a practical real-world problem to solve.
For the next 10 days, Ashley will make $25 per day helping her mother with household chores.  How much will she make?
Solution: Place a 0 at the end of 25.  Ashley will make $250.

This process also works for Integers, which contain negative numbers.

Here's another practical problem to solve.

On his way to the office each day, Charlie spends exactly $3 at the local convenience store buying a fountain drink and a bag of chips.  After 10 visits to the store, how much did he spend?
Solution:  Spending money is a reduction in his account.  We must multiply -$3 x 10 to solve our problem.  We know that -3 x 10 = -30.  Charlie spent $30.

Create your own example, and share this practical tip with a friend!