Here we will go over two different methods to add or subtract mixed numbers. Find the way that is most natural for you – both will lead you to the right answer.
Method #1: Change mixed numbers into improper fractions
1. Change all mixed numbers to improper fractions.
2. Express fractions using a common denominator.
3. Add or subtract the fractions.
4. Simplify your answer. Express as a mixed number if necessary.
Method #2: Keep numbers as mixed numbers
Addition
1. Convert the fractional part of each number to a common denominator.
2. Add the whole numbers together.
3. Add the fractions.
4. If the resulting fraction is improper, change it into a mixed number and add that to the whole number.
Subtraction
1. Convert the fractional part of each number to a common denominator.
2. If the second fraction is larger than the first, borrow from the whole number in order to be able to subtract.
3. Subtract the whole numbers.
4. Subtract the fractions.
Method One Example 1
| First, change each mixed number into an improper fraction |
and 
is improper, we probably need to change it to a mixed
number. Our answer is 
.Method One Example 2
| Change each mixed number into an improper fraction. |
is improper, we may want to change it to a mixed number. Our answer is 
.Method One Example 3
| Change each mixed number into an improper fraction. |
and 
is improper, we probably need to change it to a mixed number. Our answer is 
.Method One Example 4
| Change each mixed number into an improper fraction. |
is improper, we probably need to change it to a mixed number. Our answer is 
.Method Two Example 1
| Convert each fraction to one with a common denominator of 12. |
Method Two Example 2
| Convert each fraction to one with a common denominator of 4. |
is improper, we need to change it to a mixed number (
).
.Method Two Example 3
| Convert each fraction to one with a common denominator of 10. |
and 
Method Two Example 4
| Convert each fraction to one with a common denominator of 6. |
from 
, we need to borrow 1 whole or 
from the 8. So, 
.
