In this activity, we will learn how to add or subtract mixed numbers by following the given examples.

 

To add or subtract two mixed numbers, first add or subtract the whole numbers, then the fraction parts.

 

Adding

Look at this example.

3

3 4

+

2

1 6

 

Answer

3 + 2 = 5

 

Then add the fractions.

Here we turn each fraction into 12ths.

 

3 4

+

1 6

=

3 × 3 12

+

1 × 2 12

=

9 12

+

2 12

=

11 12

 

3

3 4

+

2

1 6

=

5

11 12

 

 

Subtracting

Look at this example.

 

3

5 6

-

1

2 9

 

Answer

3 - 1 = 2

 

Then subtract the fractions.

Here we turn each fraction into 18ths.

 

5 6

-

2 9

=

5 × 3 18

-

2 × 2 18

=

15 18

-

4 18

=

11 18

 

3

5 6

-

1

2 9

=

2

11 18

 

Remember to reduce or simplify fractions if you can.

 

So, for example, 6/8 should be reduced to 3/4 by dividing both the top and bottom numbers by 2.

 

Let's get started!