What is Rounding?

Rounding is a way of finding an approximate value that is easier to work with.

We round numbers to the nearest 10, 100, or 1,000 to make calculations quicker and estimates easier.

Why Do We Round?

Rounding is useful in everyday life when:

  • Estimating shopping costs

  • Checking bills

  • Measuring distances

  • Working with large numbers

  • Estimating answers in exams

Functional Skills Exam Tip

Always ask yourself:

"Which multiple of 10 is the number closest to?"

A number line can help you decide.

Or When rounding to the nearest 10:

  1. Look at the ones digit.

  2. If the ones digit is 0–4, round down.

  3. If the ones digit is 5–9, round up.