Worked example 1
Multiply 1 2/3 × 2 1/4.
First convert to a form that is easier to calculate: 5/3 × 9/4. Now cancel 3 and 9: 5/1 × 3/4 = 15/4 = 3 3/4.
Answer: 3 3/4
Grade 6 Math · Topic 14
Multiplying Mixed Numbers
Always convert mixed numbers to improper fractions first. Then multiply numerators, multiply denominators, simplify, and convert back to a mixed number if needed. Don't try to multiply the whole and fraction parts separately — that gives wrong answers.
Lesson alignment: Prerequisite review · 5.NF.B.4 · Take your time. You can return to this lesson whenever you need it.
Explore visually
Multiply mixed numbers with an area model
Convert each mixed number to an improper fraction and see the product as a partitioned area.
Think first: What improper fractions do these mixed numbers become before you multiply?
Ready? Reveal the model and try your prediction
Swipe horizontally to see the full diagram.
Turn on JavaScript to adjust this model. The examples and practice below work without it.
Follow the worked examples
Read each step, then cover the explanation and see if you can explain why it works.
Worked example 2
Multiply 3 1/2 × 4.
First convert to a form that is easier to calculate: 7/2 × 4/1 = 28/2 = 14.
Answer: 14
Try a few on your own
Work these on paper first. Open “Check” when you are ready to compare your answer.
- 1 1/2 × 2 =
Check
3
- 2 1/4 × 2/3 =
Check
1 1/2
- 3 1/2 × 1 1/4 =
Check
4 3/8
- 1 2/5 × 2 1/2 =
Check
3 1/2
- 4 × 2 3/5 =
Check
10 2/5
- 2 2/3 × 1 1/8 =
Check
3
- 3 1/3 × 2 1/4 =
Check
7 1/2
- 5 1/2 × 4/11 =
Check
2
Try this situation 1
A wall is 8 1/2 feet tall and 4 2/3 feet wide. What is its area?
Show a worked solution
Answer: 39 2/3 square feet.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: 8 1/2 × 4 2/3 = 17/2 × 14/3 = 238/6 = 39 4/6 = 39 2/3.
Try this situation 2
A recipe calls for 2 1/4 cups of flour. Sasha is making 3 batches. How much flour does she need in total?
Show a worked solution
Answer: 6 3/4 cups.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: 2 1/4 × 3 = 9/4 × 3 = 27/4 = 6 3/4.
Fresh questions · saved on this device
Practice this skill
Try a fresh set each time. Answer one question, check your thinking, and read the explanation. If you miss one, return to the visual model and try another round.
Question 1 of 50 correct so far
Session complete
Check what you learned
Answer these five questions on your own. You can review the explanations after you submit and try again whenever you like. This short check is for practice, not a grade.
Practice and finish
Try the linked topic quiz for more practice. If something is tricky, return to the example and look for the step that changes the numbers or representation.
Your checkmark, skill-practice sessions, and best exit-check score are saved on this browser and device. The course page can download a progress report to share with a tutor or teacher.
More Grade 6 resources
Use these free materials if you want another explanation, extra paper practice, or a broader review.