Introduction
This quotient remainder question looks simple, but many students lose marks by forgetting where the remainder goes. In lower primary and PSLE-style revision, a quotient remainder question tests whether students really understand the division relationship, not just how to divide.
The Question / Scenario Explanation
Source: P3 MAHA BODHI 2023 Term 1
When a number is divided by \(5\), the quotient is \(78\) and the remainder is \(4\). What is the number?
Step-by-Step Solution / Explanation
Step 1: Recall the division relationship
For every quotient remainder question, use this idea:
Number \(=\) divisor \(\times\) quotient \(+\) remainder
In this question:
Divisor \(= 5\)
Quotient \(= 78\)
Remainder \(= 4\)
Step 2: Multiply the divisor and quotient
\(5 \times 78 = 390\)
This gives the largest multiple of \(5\) before the remainder is added.
Step 3: Add the remainder
\(390 + 4 = 394\)
✅ Final Answer: \(394\)
Step 4: Quick check
Divide \(394\) by \(5\):
\(394 \div 5 = 78\) remainder \(4\)
This matches the question exactly, so the answer is correct.
Key Concepts Students Must Know
- In a quotient remainder question, the number is found using: number \(=\) divisor \(\times\) quotient \(+\) remainder.
- The remainder is always added after multiplying the divisor and quotient.
- The remainder must be smaller than the divisor.
- These questions test understanding of division structure, not just basic multiplication.
Exam Tips / Common Mistakes
Exam Tips
- Underline the three important numbers: divisor, quotient, and remainder.
- Write the rule first: divisor \(\times\) quotient \(+\) remainder.
- Do a quick check by dividing your final answer back again.
- For a quotient remainder question, make sure the remainder is less than the divisor.
Common Mistakes
- Adding \(78 + 4\) first instead of multiplying \(5 \times 78\).
- Forgetting to add the remainder at the end.
- Using the wrong order, such as quotient \(\times\) remainder.
- Giving an answer that does not match quotient \(78\) remainder \(4\) when checked.
Parent Insight
This quotient remainder question builds a very important foundation for upper primary Maths. Students who understand how divisor, quotient, and remainder connect will handle division word problems more confidently later. It is a small concept, but it supports stronger number sense and fewer careless mistakes in exams.
Conclusion
To solve this quotient remainder question, we used the rule number \(=\) divisor \(\times\) quotient \(+\) remainder. So \(5 \times 78 + 4 = 394\). The required number is \(394\).
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