Decimals
Fractions
The steps involved in multiplying fractions and mixed numbers are similar, but an important first step is required when multiplying mixed numbers.
Multiplying fractions
To multiply fractions, simply multiply the numerators; then multiply the denominators. Reduce to lowest terms if necessary.
Example 1: Multiply ⅔ ×5/12.
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This answer had to be reduced because it wasn't in lowest terms.
When multiplying fractions, you can cancel first, which eliminates the need to reduce your answer. To cancel, find a number that divides evenly into one numerator and one denominator. In Example 27, 2 will divide evenly into 2 in the numerator (it goes in one time) and 12 in the denominator (it goes in six times). Thus,
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Whole numbers can also be written as fractions (3 =3/1 or 4 =4/1), so the problem 3 ×3/8 is worked by changing 3 to3/1.
Example 2: Multiply 3 ×3/8.
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Example 3: Multiply1/4 ×2/7.
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Remember: You may cancel only when multiplying fractions.
Multiplying mixed numbers
To multiply mixed numbers, first change any mixed number to an improper fraction. Then multiply the numerators together and the denominators together, as shown in Example 1.
Example 4: Multiply 3⅓ × 2¼.
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Example 5: Multiply 31/5 × 6½.
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