A mixed number is a whole number and a proper fraction written together.
Learn the definition, see real examples, use the visual strip model, and jump into the calculator when you are ready to convert.
2frac34visual idea
2 wholes + 3/4
The whole part tells how many complete wholes. The fraction part tells the leftover part of the next whole.
A mixed number, also called a mixed fraction, has a whole number part and a proper fraction part.
Written together, the two parts represent a value greater than 1 but not a whole number.
The mixed number 2 3/4 means 2 complete wholes plus 3 out of 4 equal parts of another whole.
2frac341frac125frac23| Type | Definition | Examples | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proper fraction | numerator < denominator | 1/2, 3/4 | Between 0 and 1 |
| Mixed number | whole + proper fraction | 1 3/4, 2 1/2 | Greater than 1 |
| Improper fraction | numerator >= denominator | 7/4, 9/9 | 1 or greater |
2 1/2
2 whole pizzas and half of another.
3 3/4 in
3 whole inches and 3/4 of an inch.
1 1/2 hr
1 hour and 30 minutes.
2 2/3 cups
2 whole cups and 2/3 of a cup.
Between 2 and 3, closer to 3.
Exactly halfway between 1 and 2.
Between 4 and 5, closer to 4.
visual tool
Enter a mixed number and watch the whole strips and leftover fraction update.
2 3/4 = 2 wholes + 3/4 = 11/4
1 whole (4/4)
1 whole (4/4)
3/4 remaining
compare
Two ways to write the same value
2 wholes + 3/4
1 whole (4/4)
1 whole (4/4)
3/4 remaining
=
11 pieces, each is 1/4
1 whole (4/4)
1 whole (4/4)
3/4 remaining
3 steps
Step 1
Multiply whole x denominator
2 x 4 = 8
Step 2
Add the numerator
8 + 3 = 11
Step 3
Keep the denominator
11/4
2frac34=frac2times4+34=frac1141. Which of these is a mixed number? A) 3/4 B) 2 1/3 C) 7/4
2. Write the mixed number for: 1 whole and 2/5
3. Convert 2 3/4 to an improper fraction
The other way to write values greater than 1.
Use the conversion method from this page.
Convert in the reverse direction.
Build the visual strips from this lesson.
Plot mixed numbers and fractions.
Calculate with mixed numbers.