Mixed number calculation
Enter a mixed number as 1 1/2, a fraction as 3/4, a whole number or a decimal.
Result
What is a mixed number?
A mixed number combines a whole number and a proper fraction. For example, 2 1/4 means two wholes and one quarter. It is the same as the improper fraction 9/4.
How to enter mixed numbers
Use one space between the whole number and the fraction: enter 1 1/2 for one and a half. You can also enter a simple fraction such as 3/4, a whole number such as 7, or a decimal such as 1.25.
How calculations with mixed numbers work
The working uses a fraction for each complete input, including its whole part. After the operation, the result is simplified and shown as a mixed number when appropriate. For example, 1 1/3 + 2 1/4 becomes 4/3 + 9/4, which equals 43/12 or 3 7/12.
Adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing
For addition and subtraction, fractions need a common denominator. For multiplication, multiply numerators together and denominators together. For division, multiply by the reciprocal of the second value: keep the first fraction, change division to multiplication and flip the second fraction.
Negative mixed numbers
Place the minus sign before the whole number: -1 1/2 represents negative one and a half. The calculator reduces negative answers and displays them in a clear mixed-number form.
Use the size of the whole parts as a check
The sum 2 3/4 + 1 5/6 must exceed 3 and remain below 5. Converting to twelfths gives 33/12 + 22/12 = 55/12, or 4 7/12. Converting first avoids treating the fractional pieces as unrelated numbers, especially when subtraction requires borrowing from a whole.
Frequently asked questions
How should I type a mixed number?
Use a space between the whole part and fraction, such as 2 3/4. This means 2 + 3/4.
How is a positive mixed number converted to a fraction?
Multiply the whole part by the denominator, add the numerator and keep the denominator. Thus 2 3/4 becomes 11/4.
What does −1 1/2 mean?
The minus sign applies to the whole value, so it means −1.5 rather than −0.5.
Can I enter a decimal instead?
Yes. The input accepts decimals as well as whole numbers, simple fractions and mixed numbers.
How do I add 1 1/3 and 2 1/4?
Convert to 4/3 and 9/4. Their sum is 16/12 + 27/12 = 43/12, or 3 7/12.
Can I divide by a zero mixed number?
No. If the complete divisor equals zero, division is undefined.