Long Division Calculator
Perform long division with step-by-step solution showing the complete process. See also Remainder Calculator and Fraction Calculator.
How to Do Long Division
Long division is a method for dividing large numbers by breaking the problem into a series of simpler steps. You work from left to right through the dividend, determining how many times the divisor fits into each portion. The process involves dividing, multiplying, subtracting, and bringing down the next digit, repeating until all digits have been processed.
Long Division Steps
1. Divide: How many times does divisor fit?
2. Multiply: quotient digit × divisor
3. Subtract: current number − product
4. Bring down: next digit of dividend
5. Repeat until no digits remain
Result: Dividend = Divisor × Quotient + Remainder
Example
1234 ÷ 56
Step 1: 1 ÷ 56 = 0, bring down 2 → 12
Step 2: 12 ÷ 56 = 0, bring down 3 → 123
Step 3: 123 ÷ 56 = 2, 2 × 56 = 112, 123 − 112 = 11
Step 4: Bring down 4 → 114
Step 5: 114 ÷ 56 = 2, 2 × 56 = 112, 114 − 112 = 2
Quotient: 22, Remainder: 2
Check: 56 × 22 + 2 = 1234 ✓
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the divisor is larger than the dividend?
If the divisor is larger than the dividend, the quotient is 0 and the remainder equals the dividend. For example, 5 ÷ 12 = 0 remainder 5.
How do I check my long division answer?
Multiply the quotient by the divisor and add the remainder. The result should equal the dividend: Divisor × Quotient + Remainder = Dividend.
Can long division produce decimals?
Yes. After processing all digits, if there is a remainder, you can add a decimal point and continue dividing by appending zeros. This calculator shows both the integer quotient with remainder and the decimal result.
Why learn long division when calculators exist?
Long division builds understanding of place value, estimation, and the relationship between multiplication and division. It is also the basis for polynomial division in algebra.