Though math problems often force you to determine exact multiples, real life benefits from estimation. Real life presents many fraction-based issues, such as dividing 13 pieces of candy between three people. Since it often proves impossible to provide someone with a fraction of a whole object, you need to determine the closest whole number. If you need to turn a whole number into a fraction compatible with any denominator, write the number as the fraction "Number/1."
Instructions
1. Write the fraction and the number you must divide. For example, if a problem asks you to find one-third of 13, write "1/3" next to "13." Label the "1/3" as the denominator.
2. Write the fraction with the whole number as the numerator and the denominator 1. For example, write "13/1."
3. Multiply the numerators together. Write the result as the numerator of a fraction. Multiple the denominators together. Write the result as the denominator. For example, multiply 1/3 and 13/1 to find 13/3.
4. List the multiples of the current denominator, up the the current numerator. For example, for the denominator 3, list 3, 6, 9, 12, 15.
5. Circle the number, closest to the numerator. For example, 12 is the number closest to the denominator 13.
6. Divide the circled numbers by the denominator. For example, divide 12 by 3 to find 4, the nearest whole number.
7. Write the number as a compatible fraction, if desired. Multiply the number by the original denominator and use it as a numerator. For example, multiply 4 by 3 to find 12/3.
Tags: denominator example, numerator example, whole number, example multiply, example multiply find, multiply find
