When two numbers are to be multiplied, one of which contains a
fraction, first multiply the whole numbers together, then multiply the
fraction by the other whole number, add the two results together for
the correct answer.
_Example_. What cost 5-1/3 yards at 18c a yard?
18c
5-1/3
---
18 x 5 = 90
18 x 1/3 = 6
---
96c
When both numbers contain a fraction,
First, multiply the whole numbers together,
Second, multiply the, lower whole number by the upper fraction;
Third, multiply the upper whole number by the lower fraction;
Fourth, multiply the fractions together;
Fifth, add all the results for the correct answer.
_Example_. What cost 12-2/3 pounds of butter at 18-3/4c per pound?
18-3/4
12-2/3
-------
18 X 12 = 216
12 x 3/4 = 9
18 X 2/3 = 12
3/4 X 2/3 = 6/12 = 1/2
-------
$2.37-1/2
Common fractions may often be changed to decimals very readily, and
the calculations thereby made much easier.