What is the first step in subtracting mixed numbers when the fraction part of the first mixed number is smaller than the fraction part of the second mixed number?

Borrow or regroup from the whole number part of the first mixed number.

Subtracting Mixed Numbers

Grade 9th Grade · Math · 30 min

I can subtract mixed numbers with like denominators and express the difference in simplest form.

mathantics · 9:13

Math Antics - Subtracting Mixed Numbers

3 key concepts

1
When subtracting mixed numbers, it is important to subtract the entire mixed number, including both the whole number and the fraction part.
2
When subtracting mixed numbers in stacked form, if the top fraction is smaller than the bottom fraction, you need to borrow or re-group from the whole number.
3
When borrowing, you can change the whole number into a sum and then convert 1 into a whole fraction to add to the existing fraction part.

3 questions · Short answer

Quick comprehension check

“Solve: 9 ⁵⁄₇ - 3 ¹⁄₇. Ensure your answer is expressed in simplest form.”

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