How do you multiply a mixed number by a mixed number?

To multiply a mixed number by a mixed number, change the mixed numbers to improper fractions. Simplify the fractions if possible before multiplying the numerators and then the denominators.

Example:

To multiply a mixed number by a mixed number:

It takes about   hours to fly from New Orleans to Dallas.
To fly from New Orleans to Los Angeles, it takes about  times as long as the trip from New Orleans to Dallas. To find how long it takes to fly from New Orleans to Los Angeles, multiply   by  .

First, write both mixed numbers as improper fractions.

Before multiplying the fractions, check if you can simplify the fractions: divide any numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor. The greatest common factor of 9 and 3 is 3, so cross out and divide both numbers by 3.

The greatest common factor of 4 and 8 is 4, so cross out and divide both numbers by 4.

Now, multiply the numerators and then the denominators.

The improper fraction equals 6. It takes about 6 hours to fly from New Orleans to Los Angeles.