Mixed numbers consist of an integer followed by a fraction.
How to subtract mixed numbers having the same denominator:
- Make the first numerator larger than the second if it is not.
- Subtract the second numerator from the first
- Place that difference over the common denominator.
- Subtract the integer portions of the two mixed numbers
- State the answer
Example: 5 1/3 - 3 2/3 =
| Make the first numerator larger than the second | 5 1/3 = 4 4/3 |
| Subtract the fractional parts of the mixed numbers | 4/3 - 2/3 = 2/3 |
| Subtract the integer portions of the mixed numbers | 4 - 3 = 1 |
| State the final answer: | 1 2/3 |
