MathematicsClass 6Fractions
Proper and Improper Fractions
Classifying fractions based on the relative size of their numerators and denominators.
Class 6 · MathematicsCBSE & ICSE SOF IMO
Definition
A proper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is less than the denominator, representing a value less than one. An improper fraction has a numerator greater than or equal to its denominator, representing a value greater than or equal to one, and can also be written as a mixed fraction.
Key formula
Proper: Numerator < Denominator; Improper: Numerator >= Denominator
Worked examples
1
3/4 is a proper fraction because 3 is less than 4.
2
7/4 is an improper fraction because 7 is greater than 4, which can also be written as the mixed fraction 1 3/4.
Common mistakes
- • Thinking that any fraction with a large number is automatically an improper fraction.
- • Forgetting how to properly convert an improper fraction into a mixed fraction.