Solve Mixed Number Addition: 1¼ + 2½ Step by Step

To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:

• Step 1: Convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions.
• Step 2: Find a common denominator and perform the addition.
• Step 3: Convert the resulting improper fraction back to a mixed number.

Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: Convert each mixed number to an improper fraction:

• $1\frac{1}{4}$ becomes $\frac{5}{4}$ because $1 \times 4 + 1 = 5$.
• $2\frac{1}{2}$ becomes $\frac{5}{2}$ because $2 \times 2 + 1 = 5$.

Step 2: Find a common denominator and add the fractions:
The least common denominator of 4 and 2 is 4.
Convert $\frac{5}{2}$ to $\frac{10}{4}$ by multiplying the numerator and the denominator by 2.
Now, add the fractions: $\frac{5}{4} + \frac{10}{4} = \frac{15}{4}$.

Step 3: Convert the improper fraction back to a mixed number:
Divide 15 by 4. The whole number is 3, and the remainder is 3.
So, $\frac{15}{4} = 3\frac{3}{4}$.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is $3\frac{3}{4}$.