NumberKey Stage 3

Multiplying mixed numbers

Multiply mixed numbers by working with improper fractions.

  • Convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions.
  • Multiply the numerators and multiply the denominators. Cancel first if possible.
  • Simplify if needed, then convert an improper answer back to a mixed number.

Example 1

Convert, then multiply

Calculate. Give your answer as a mixed number in its simplest form.

Convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 3.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.6 parts make 3 wholes; 1 part remains.

Example 2

Simplify the result

Work out the result and simplify fully.

Convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 4.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 5.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.

Remember
A mixed number represents the whole number plus its fraction part.

Your turn

Question 1

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 3.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 2.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 2

Calculate. Give your answer as a mixed number in its simplest form.

Check answer
Convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 3.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.12 parts make 3 wholes; 3 parts remain.
Question 3

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 2.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 5.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 4

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 5.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 3.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 5

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 4.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.Highest common factor of this numerator and denominator: 7.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.