i'm not understanding mixed numbers and improper fractions. (the part where you convert one into another) WHAT DO I DO?!?!

Study this site.

http://www.mathsisfun.com/mixed-fractions.html

We'll be glad to check your answers to a few of your your problems.

A boy gave 2 /5 of his cakes.to his dog and 1/4 to his cat. If he had 14 cakes left how many did the boy have to start with

Understanding how to convert between mixed numbers and improper fractions can be tricky at first, but with some practice, it becomes easier. Let's start with the definitions:

- Mixed number: A mixed number is a whole number combined with a fraction. For example, 2 3/4 is a mixed number, where 2 is the whole number, and 3/4 is the fraction part.

- Improper fraction: An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator (the number on the top) is greater than or equal to the denominator (the number on the bottom). For example, 11/5 is an improper fraction.

To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, you follow these steps:

1. Multiply the whole number by the denominator.
For example, if you have the mixed number 2 3/4, multiply 2 by 4 (the denominator), which gives you 8.

2. Add the numerator to the result from step 1.
Continuing with the previous example, add 3 (the numerator) to 8, giving you 11.

3. Place the result from step 2 as the new numerator and keep the denominator the same.
In our example, the improper fraction is 11/4.

To convert an improper fraction to a mixed number, you follow these steps:

1. Divide the numerator by the denominator.
For example, if you have the improper fraction 11/4, divide 11 by 4, which gives you 2 remainder 3.

2. The whole number part is the quotient from step 1, and the fractional part is the remainder over the original denominator.
In our example, the mixed number is 2 3/4.

When practicing, it's helpful to start with simple examples and gradually work your way up to more complex ones. Using visual representations, like drawing fraction bars or using fraction manipulatives, can also make it easier to grasp the concept.