An improper fraction is defined as a fraction whose numerator (top number) is greater than or equal to the denominator (bottom number). This is also called being “top-heavy.” An improper fraction is most often turned into a mixed number with a remainder, but some fractions can be turned into whole numbers.

A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction; for instance, 1 1/3 is a mixed number. In this case, the fraction 1/3 is classified as the “remainder.” On the other hand, a whole number is a number like 2, 3, and 4.

Converting Improper Fractions to Whole Numbers

Step 1

Look at the top number of the fraction and make sure that it is equal to or greater than the bottom number of your fraction.

Step 2

If the numbers are the same, you can convert your improper fraction into a whole number of 1.

Step 3

If the top number is bigger than the bottom number, see if the bottom number can go into the top number without creating a remainder.

For example, if the improper fraction is 24/12, 12 goes into 24 two times exactly, without any remainder, creating a whole number of 2.

Step 4

If dividing the numerator by the denominator results in a remainder, the fraction cannot be turned into a whole number. In this case, the improper fraction can only be turned into a mixed number.