How to Multiply Two Mixed Numbers

Knowing how to multiply fractions will help when it comes to multiplying two mixed numbers. To multiply two mixed numbers, first change all mixed numbers to improper fractions. Then, simplify, or reduce, the fractions, if necessary. Next, multiply the numerators. Multiply the denominators. Simplify, or reduce, the answer if possible. Finally, change improper fractions to a mixed number.

Example: Sadie worked 10 2/3 hours at time-and-a-half. How many hours will she get paid for?

Before you start solving, you must first change the word problem to an equation: 10 2/3 × 1 1/2 = ?

  1. Change all mixed numbers to improper fractions.

    Here’s the formula for changing a mixed number to an improper fraction:

    [(denominator × whole number) + numerator] and then place that result above the denominator.

    In a fraction, the Numerator is always North (above) the fraction line. The Denominator is always Down below the fraction line.

    In Sadie’s case, you have two mixed numbers that need to become improper fractions: 10 2/3 and 1 1/2.

    The problem now looks like this with improper fractions:

    10 2/3 × 1 1/2 = 32/3 × 3/2 = ?

  2. Reduce the fractions.

    In the equation 32/3 × 3/2, divide the first denominator, 3, by 3 and the second numerator, 3, by 3.

    image0.png

    Next, divide the first numerator, 32, by 2 and the second denominator, 2, by 2.

    image1.png
  3. Multiply the numerators.

    image2.png

    Just multiply across the top: 16 times 1.

  4. Multiply the denominators.

    image3.png

    Again, multiply across — this time, below the fraction line — 1 times 1.

  5. Reduce the answer.

    image4.png

    If the result is an improper fraction, change it to a mixed number.

So, Sadie worked 10 2/3 hours at time-and-a-half and gets paid for 16 hours — what a payday!

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