Mixed Numbers
A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction, for example: 2
.
Improper Fractions
A fraction in which the numerator is larger than or equal to the denominator, like
,
, or
is called an improper fraction.
Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
A mixed number can be expressed as a fraction.

- Multiply the whole number by the denominator.
- Then add the result to the numerator.
- This result becomes new numerator.
- The denominator remains the same.
Let's illustrate through examples.
Example 1
Write 2
as an improper fraction.
Solution
To write 2
as an improper fraction,
Multiply the whole number by the denominator.
The whole number is 2.
The denominator is 2.
2 x 2 = 4
Add the result to the numerator:
The numerator is 1.
4 + 1 = 5
The numerator is 5. The denominator remains 2.
Example 2
Write 5
as an improper fraction.
Solution
To write 5
as an improper fraction,
Multiply the whole number by the denominator.
The whole number is 5.
The denominator is 3.
5 x 3 = 15
Add the result to the numerator:
The numerator is 2.
15 + 2 = 17
The numerator is 17. The denominator remains 3.