The ancient Egyptians used a division method we call “partial quotients.” It’s a quick an intuitive way to do division.
Also check out how ancient Egyptians multiplied numbers:
Then read why this method works:
The problem 30 divided by 2 1/2 is documented in the Rind Mathematical Papyrus, Problem 76. The document is from ~1650 BC, which is more than 3,600 years ago.
Rind Mathematical Papyrus:
I came across this problem in a text about non-western mathematical history, “The Mathematics of Egypt, Mesopotamia, China, India, and Islam: A Sourcebook” :
Today this algorithm is taught as the partial quotients method (pdf):
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“The Irrationality Illusion: How To Make Smart Decisions And Overcome Bias” is a handbook that explains the many ways we are biased about decision-making and offers techniques to make smart decisions. (rated 5/5 stars on 1 review)
“Math Puzzles Volume 1” features classic brain teasers and riddles with complete solutions for problems in counting, geometry, probability, and game theory. Volume 1 is rated 4.5/5 stars on 11 reviews.
“Math Puzzles Volume 2” is a sequel book with more great problems.
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“Multiply Numbers By Drawing Lines” This book is a reference guide for my video that has over 1 million views on a geometric method to multiply numbers. (rated 5/5 stars on 1 review)
