Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions

Return to Teacher Page

A fraction is an improper fraction if the fraction has a larger numerator than denominator.The process of changing a mixed number to an improper fraction is a circular method. You will go in a complete circle to change a mixed number to an improper fraction. Below are some examples:

The process is as follows:

Multiply the denominator and whole number together. Then add the numerator to that number. Then put over the denomiator. You should have went in a complete circle/

Example 1: Change 1 and 3/5 to an improper fraction

5 needs to be Multiplied by 1. This will give you 5. Then the numerator (3) should be added to 5. This will give you eight. This number is the new numerator. Then use the original denominaotr of 5. The improper fraction will be 8/5.

Example 2: Change 2 and 1/10 to an improper fraction.

10 needs to be Multiplied by 2. This will give you 20. Then the numerator (1) should be added to 20. This will give you 21. This number is the new numerator. Then use the original denominator of 10. The improper fraction will be 21/10.

Example 3: Change the whole number 2 to an improper fraction.

All you need to do is put a whole number over 1. The improper fractions for the whole number 2 is 2/1.

Home