Summary: Adding and Subtracting Mixed Numbers

Key Concepts

• Add mixed numbers with a common denominator.
  1. Add the whole numbers.
  2. Add the fractions.
  3. Simplify, if possible.
• Subtract mixed numbers with common denominators.
  1. Rewrite the problem in vertical form.
  2. Compare the two fractions.If the top fraction is larger than the bottom fraction, go to Step 3.If not, in the top mixed number, take one whole and add it to the fraction part, making a mixed number with an improper fraction.
  3. Subtract the fractions.
  4. Subtract the whole numbers.
  5. Simplify, if possible.
• Subtract mixed numbers with common denominators as improper fractions.
  1. Rewrite the mixed numbers as improper fractions.
  2. Subtract the numerators.
  3. Write the answer as a mixed number, simplifying the fraction part, if possible.

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