What should be done to an improper fraction for simplification?

To simplify an improper fraction, it is necessary to reduce the fraction to its simplest form or convert it into a mixed number, which often involves turning the improper fraction into a whole number along with a proper fraction. An improper fraction is defined as one where the numerator (the top part) is larger than the denominator (the bottom part).

When simplifying, you typically want to either reduce it by finding common factors between the numerator and the denominator or change it into a mixed number. For instance, if the improper fraction is 9/4, it can be transformed into the mixed number 2 1/4, which effectively expresses the same quantity but is often easier to understand and use in further calculations. This process helps clarify the value and makes it more manageable, especially in contexts such as addition or subtraction with other fractions.

Converting to a decimal is another method but does not directly simplify the improper fraction in terms of breaking it down into a whole number and a proper fraction. Multiplying by the denominator does not simplify the fraction, nor does ignoring it in calculations offer a valid method of handling improper fractions. Thus, the preferred method of dealing with an improper fraction involves reducing it and potentially converting it to a mixed number.