Fractions Introduction: Mixed Fractions to Improper Fractions

Our first example will be the mixed fraction 2 1/4. To change a mixed fraction into an improper fraction, we just do three things:

1) Multiply the number times the denominator (bottom) of the fraction. In this example, 2 x 4 = 8.

2) Add this number (product) that we just figured out to the numerator (top). In this example, 8 + 1 = 9.

3) This number (sum) that we just figured out is now the numerator (top). 2 1/4 is equal to the improper fraction 9/4.

Here's another example: 3 2/5

1) Multiply the number times the denominator (bottom) of the fraction. In this example, 3 x 5 = 15.

2) Add this number (product) that we just figured out to the numerator (top). In this example, 15 + 2 = 17.

3) This number (sum) that we just figured out is now the numerator (top). 3 2/5 is equal to the improper fraction 17/5.