Subtracting mixed numbers

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Subtracting mixed numbers with like denominators

To subtract mixed numbers with the same denominator, follow these steps:

Subtract whole numbers from whole numbers. You might need to regroup first.
Subtract fractions from fractions
.
Simplify
,
if needed.

Let's try it with

–

First, subtract the whole numbers.

–

Then, subtract the fractions. Subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

–

Now, simplify.

So,

–

Try some practice problems!

Add and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators

Subtracting mixed numbers with unlike denominators

To subtract mixed numbers with different denominators, follow these steps:

Rename the fractions using a common denominator.
Subtract whole numbers from whole numbers. You might need to regroup first.
Subtract fractions from fractions
.
Simplify, if needed.

Let's try it with

–

First, rename the fractions using a common denominator. The

least common denominator

of these fractions is 20. Multiply to make

equivalent fractions

with 20 as the denominator.

Rewrite the problem and subtract the whole numbers.

–

Now, subtract the fractions. Subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

–

This answer is already in simplest form, so there is no need to simplify.

So,

–

Try some practice problems!

Subtract mixed numbers with unlike denominators

Regrouping mixed numbers

When subtracting mixed numbers, sometimes the fraction in the first mixed number will be smaller than the fraction in the second mixed number.

When this happens, you need to regroup the first mixed number before you subtract. Rewrite

Now you can subtract whole numbers from whole numbers, subtract fractions from fractions, and simplify.

–

So,

–

Skills

Add and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators Subtract mixed numbers with unlike denominators Add and subtract mixed numbers: word problems

Videos(3)

Add and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators

Subtract mixed numbers with unlike denominators

Add and subtract mixed numbers: word problems

Lessons

Adding mixed numbers

Subtracting fractions with like denominators

Subtracting fractions with unlike denominators

Subtracting mixed numbers with like denominators

Try some practice problems!

Subtracting mixed numbers with unlike denominators

Try some practice problems!

Regrouping mixed numbers

Related

Skills

Videos(3)

Lessons