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W.2 Convert mixed numbers to decimals

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What are mixed numbers?

Mixed numbers are numbers that have a whole number part and a fraction part.

Examples:
  • 112 means 1 whole and 12 of another whole.
  • 334 means 3 wholes and 34 of another whole.
Note

The fraction part of a mixed number always shows the part of a whole that is left over after counting the whole numbers.

How to convert a mixed number to a decimal

To convert a mixed number to a decimal, change the fraction part into a decimal and then add it to the whole number.

Steps:
  • Step 1: Separate the whole number and the fraction. Example: 214 = 2 and 14.
  • Step 2: Divide the numerator by the denominator to get a decimal. 14 = 0.25.
  • Step 3: Add the whole number and the decimal. 2 + 0.25 = 2.25.
Note

The decimal always comes from dividing the top number (numerator) by the bottom number (denominator) of the fraction.

Examples of mixed numbers as decimals

Here are a few examples of common mixed numbers written as decimals:

Examples:
  • 112 = 1.5
  • 334 = 3.75
  • 425 = 4.4
  • 5110 = 5.1
Note

Decimals and fractions show the same value in different forms. The more you practice, the easier it will be to recognize their equivalents.

Why converting mixed numbers to decimals is useful

Decimals are often used in money, measurements, and real-world situations where exact values matter.

Examples:
  • 212 cups = 2.5 cups
  • 134 miles = 1.75 miles
  • 325 dollars = $3.40
Note

Knowing both forms helps you understand numbers better and makes problem solving faster.

Check your understanding

When you finish converting, always ask yourself: Does the decimal make sense? Is it close to the mixed number’s value?

Try This:
  • Estimate before converting: 134 is a little less than 2, so its decimal (1.75) makes sense.
Note

Estimating before solving helps you catch mistakes and understand the size of the number.