Michigan Residential Builders License Practice Test

How can you convert inches to decimal points for measurement calculations?

1. Multiply by 12

2. Add 12

3. Divide the inches by 12

4. Subtract 12

The correct answer is: Divide the inches by 12

To convert inches to decimal points for measurement calculations, you would divide the number of inches by 12. This conversion is necessary because many measurement systems, particularly in construction, often use feet as a primary unit of measurement rather than inches. Since there are 12 inches in a foot, dividing the inches by 12 translates the measurement into feet in decimal form. For example, if a measurement is 24 inches and you divide 24 by 12, you get 2. This indicates that 24 inches is equivalent to 2 feet. Being able to make this conversion is essential for tasks that require accuracy in planning, estimating materials, and understanding measurements in construction practices.