Add Mixed Numbers
Read this section which explains the two methods for adding mixed numbers with common denominators. Do Examples 4.83 and 4.84 using the method of adding the whole numbers and fractions separately. Then, do Examples 4.85 using the method of converting mixed numbers to improper fractions. Be sure to check your answers.
Add and Subtract Mixed Numbers
Add Mixed Numbers
Modeling with fraction circles helps illustrate the process for adding mixed numbers: We add the whole numbers and add the fractions, and then we simplify the result, if possible.
HOW TO
Add mixed numbers with a common denominator.
Step 1. Add the whole numbers.
Step 2. Add the fractions.
Step 3. Simplify, if possible.
In Example 4.83, the sum of the fractions was a proper fraction. Now we will work through an example where the sum is an improper fraction.
An alternate method for adding mixed numbers is to convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions and then add the improper fractions. This method is usually written horizontally.
Table 4.2 compares the two methods of addition, using the expression 
as an example. Which way do you prefer?
| Mixed Numbers | Improper Fractions |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Source: Rice University, https://openstax.org/books/prealgebra/pages/4-6-add-and-subtract-mixed-numbers
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