What conversion is necessary when transitioning from square inches to square feet?

To convert from square inches to square feet, one must understand the relationship between the two units of measurement. Specifically, there are 144 square inches in one square foot, as a square foot consists of a 12-inch by 12-inch area (12 inches × 12 inches = 144 square inches).

When transitioning from square inches to square feet, the process involves dividing the number of square inches by 144. This division effectively translates the area measurement from a smaller unit (square inches) to a larger unit (square feet), ensuring that the area is appropriately scaled in terms of the larger measurement. Thus, selecting the option that indicates division by 144 is logically sound and aligns with the necessary conversion factor for this type of measurement.