Introduction
The key to subtracting mixed numbers is converting them into improper fractions. Once they are improper fractions they are easier to subtract because you can turn the denominators so that they are common. Therefore, subtraction of mixed numbers is a piece of cake!
Subtracting Mixed Numbers: Example
Let's say that you have 4 2/4-2 3/4. The first step is to turn the mixed numbers into improper fractions:
4 2/4=18/4
2 3/4=11/4
Next, you simply subtract the numerators. Remember that the denominators stay the same: 7/4.
The final step is that you have to convert the improper fraction into a mixed number: 1 3/4.
Therefore the difference of 4 2/4-2 3/4=1 3/4.
Now wasn't that easy!
Sheet 1 Practice Problems on Subtracting Mixed Numbers
Thank you so much for sharing this post on how to add and subtract fractions. You have explained it in a very understandable manner. I have been searching reading a lot of ways to add and subtract fractions and encountered only two ways. First is you used the LCM. This is best for smaller fractions. The other is to use butterfly method where you have to cross multiply the fractions. This method is best for bigger fractions and those that has no LCM. If you have doubt you can check your answers using fraction calculator with steps. The step by step solution provided by the fraction calculator will let you guide if you miss a single step. Again thanks for sharing for this valuable information.
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