Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions

Saturday, March 25th, 2023

Mixed numbers are numbers that consist of a whole number and a fraction. For example, 3½ is a mixed number because it has a whole number part (i.e., 3) and a fraction part (½). Improper fractions, on the other hand, are fractions where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator. For example, 7/2 is an improper fraction because the numerator (i.e., 7) is greater than the denominator (i.e., 2).

Converting a mixed number to an improper fraction can be useful in a variety of mathematical operations. To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, follow these steps:

Multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fraction.
Add the result to the numerator of the fraction.
Place the sum from step 2 over the original denominator.

For example, let's convert 3 ½ to an improper fraction:

Multiply the whole number (i.e., 3) by the denominator of the fraction (2): 3 x 2 = 6.
Add the result from step 1 (i.e., 6) to the numerator of the fraction (1): 6 + 1 = 7.
Place the sum from step 2 (i.e., 7) over the original denominator (2): 7/2.

Therefore, 3½ can be written as the improper fraction 7/2.

Mixed-Number to Improper Fraction Calculator

To make the process of converting mixed numbers to improper fractions easier, we have created a calculator that can do the conversion for you, as seen above. Simply enter the whole number and fraction into the calculator and it will give you the improper fraction along with the steps that that take your from the mixed number to the improper fraction.

We hope this article and calculator are helpful in your mathematical pursuits!