Dividing Mixed Numbers

Let's review how to divide fractions.

Here is an example:

We can use the KCF method. This stands for KEEP, CHANGE, FLIP.

Keep the first fraction:
Change from division to multiplication:
Flip the second fraction over:

We can use these same steps when working with mixed numbers by adding one step in the beginning. That extra step is to change from mixed numbers to improper fractions.

Example #1:

Step 1: Change to improper fractions.

and

Step 2: Write a new division problem with the improper fractions.



Step 3: Use the KCF method to rewrite it as a multiplication problem.



Step 4: Solve!



Step 5: Rewrite as a mixed number.



Here is another example.

Example #2:

Step 1: Write the mixed numbers as improper fractions.



Step 2: Rewrite the division problem using the improper fractions.



Step 3: Use KCF.



Step 4: Multiply.



Step 5: Simplify.



So to divide mixed numbers you should change the fractions to improper fraction and the convert the problem to a multiplication question. Then you will be ready to solve.


Related Links:
Math
Fractions
Factors