Long Multiplication Calculator

Multiply large numbers step-by-step with detailed explanations and partial products

Calculate Long Multiplication

The number to be multiplied (can include decimals)

The number you're multiplying by

Example: 437 × 85

Problem Setup

Multiplier: 437 (the number being multiplied)

Multiplicand: 85 (the number we're multiplying by)

Method: Multiply 437 by each digit of 85, then add results

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Multiply 437 × 5 = 2,185 (ones place)

2. Multiply 437 × 8 = 3,496, shift one place left → 34,960 (tens place)

3. Add partial products: 2,185 + 34,960 = 37,145

Final Answer: 437 × 85 = 37,145

Long Multiplication Algorithm

1

Align Numbers

Write numbers one under the other, right-aligned

2

Multiply by Ones

Multiply by the rightmost digit

3

Multiply by Tens

Multiply by next digit, shift left

4

Continue Pattern

Repeat for all digits

5

Add Results

Sum all partial products

Multiplication Tips

Put the longer number on top (optional but easier)

Remember to carry over when products exceed 9

Shift each partial product one place left

For decimals: count total decimal places

Skip zeros to save time (0 × anything = 0)

Understanding Long Multiplication

What is Long Multiplication?

Long multiplication is a method for multiplying large numbers by breaking the problem into smaller, manageable parts. It uses the distributive property to multiply each digit of one number by each digit of the other number.

Why Learn Long Multiplication?

  • Builds understanding of place value and multiplication
  • Essential for polynomial multiplication in algebra
  • Develops mental math and estimation skills
  • Foundation for advanced mathematical operations

Working with Decimals

Step 1: Count decimal places in both numbers

Step 2: Multiply as if they were whole numbers

Step 3: Add decimal places in the final answer

Example: 4.37 × 8.5 → 437 × 85 = 37145 → 37.145

Key Property: Multiplication is commutative (a × b = b × a)