How To Find The Estimated Product Of A Mixed Fraction

Mixed fractions are comprised of both a whole number and a fraction. Mixed fractions can be added, subtracted, divided or multiplied. The ability to estimate products of mixed fractions allows students to quickly calculate problems, and gives them a reference they can use to check the accuracy of their work. Estimations that differ greatly from the actual answer can serve as a warning to students that there may be an error in their computations.

Step 1

Round the fraction portions of the mixed fractions to the nearest whole number. For example, if your mixed fractions are 3 3/4 x 2 2/5, round 3/4 up to one and round 2/5 down to zero.

Step 2

Add the rounded fractions to the whole numbers of each mixed fraction. Using the previous example, 3/4 rounded up to one would be added to the whole number three, giving a sum of four. The fraction 2/5 rounded down to zero and added to the whole number two would equal two.

Step 3

Multiply the two new whole numbers together to give you an estimated product for your mixed fractions. Multiply 4 x 2, which gives you an estimated product of eight. The actual product of 3 3/4 x 2 2/5 is 6 6/20, which is close to eight.