Hi Braden,
Since place values are standard, we know that a given place value must be added with the same type of place value. In other words, hundredths place is added with hundredths place while tenths place is added with tenths place. Decimals help us add the correct place values when we align the decimals. For example:
3.01
+4.26
_____
7.27
This example shows how we can align the decimals in order to add the proper place values. We add hundredths place together (1+6=7) and tenths place together (0+2=2).
Best,
Star
