Multiplying Mixed Numbers Word Problems: Examples and Practice

Choose multiplication and convert

Multiplication fits a story about equal groups, an amount per unit, or one quantity being a stated number of times another. Read the whole question: a phrase such as “times as long” tells you to scale a length, while finding how many groups fit into a total calls for division.

1. Write the equation with units. Decide which amount is being multiplied and what the result represents.
2. Convert mixed numbers. Multiply the whole number by its denominator, then add the numerator. Keep the denominator. For example, 2 3/5 = (2 × 5 + 3)/5 = 13/5. Write a whole number such as 7 as 7/1.
3. Multiply the fractions. Multiply numerators together and denominators together. You may divide a numerator and a denominator by a common factor first.
4. Simplify and check. Convert an improper fraction to a mixed number if that makes the answer easier to read. Include units and compare with a rough estimate.

With different denominators, use the same method. For example, 1 1/2 × 2 1/3 = 3/2 × 7/3 = 7/2 = 3 1/2. Finding a common denominator is a step used for adding or subtracting fractions, not a requirement here. Do not multiply the whole-number parts and fractional parts separately.

Example 1: a taller ladder

Daniel’s ladder is 7 feet tall. Kevin’s ladder is 2 3/5 times as tall. How tall is Kevin’s ladder?

The multiplier compares Kevin’s height with Daniel’s height, so multiply 7 feet by 2 3/5.

7 × 2 3/5 = 7/1 × 13/5 = 91/5 = 18 1/5.

Kevin’s ladder is 18 1/5 feet tall. Since the multiplier is between 2 and 3, the answer should be between 14 and 21 feet. It is.

Example 2: multiplying two mixed numbers

An office is 16 2/3 yards wide. Its length is 4 1/4 times its width. How long is the office?

Convert both mixed numbers: 16 2/3 = 50/3 and 4 1/4 = 17/4.

50/3 × 17/4 = 850/12 = 425/6 = 70 5/6.

The office is 70 5/6 yards long. The question asks for a length, so the unit is yards. If it asked for floor area, you would multiply the width by the length and use square yards instead.

Try three word problems

1. Each of 3 identical ribbons is 2 1/4 feet long. What is their combined length?
2. A recipe uses 1 1/2 cups of flour per batch. How much flour is needed for 2 1/3 batches?
3. A rectangular garden is 3 1/2 meters long and 2 2/3 meters wide. What is its area?

Printable practice and review

For more help with the calculation, review multiplying mixed numbers step by step. Then choose the multiplying and dividing mixed numbers PDF in the free mixed-number worksheet collection. That PDF practices calculations; use the word problems above to practice choosing the operation and labeling units.

The Grade 5 math learning hub also connects fraction review with other math skills.

Optional study book

If you want a broader pre-algebra study resource, review the existing book option below after completing the free examples.

Pre-Algebra for Beginners 2026 The Ultimate Step by Step Guide to Preparing for the Pre-Algebra Test

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