Leave the fraction alone, or make it a mixed number?

[JR Sauerland]

In a certain problem, but almost no others I've encountered, the problem instructed to convert 14/5 to a mixed number, 2 and 4/5. I've noticed that mixed numbers almost never appear in Algebra (let alone Trig). Is it better to leave it as an improper fraction or to mix it up? (Get the pun, mix it?)

 

[Bystander]

Which would you prefer to use?

 

[tommyxu3]

I think it depends on where you focus on, or, what you regard useful in the condition you meet. After all, the meanings of $2\frac{4}{5}$ ,$\frac{14}{5}$ and $2.8$ are entirely the same.

 

[JR Sauerland]

Which would you prefer to use?

I personally prefer decimals or improper (14/5) because it allows you to work fluidly with other fractions. 2 4/5 just baffles me personally...

 

[Bystander]

That's answer enough, I'd think.

 

[symbolipoint]

In a certain problem, but almost no others I've encountered, the problem instructed to convert 14/5 to a mixed number, 2 and 4/5. I've noticed that mixed numbers almost never appear in Algebra (let alone Trig). Is it better to leave it as an improper fraction or to mix it up? (Get the pun, mix it?)

Use the form which fits your purpose best.