What is the first step in converting a mixed number to an improper fraction?

To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, the first step involves multiplying the whole number by the denominator. By doing this, you correctly determine how many parts of the fraction's size are represented by the whole number.

For example, if you have the mixed number 2 3/4, you multiply the whole number (2) by the denominator (4). This gives you 8, which represents the total parts. The next step would be to add the numerator (3) to this result (8), leading to a total of 11 parts. Thus, the improper fraction would be 11/4.

This systematic approach allows you to accurately represent the mixed number as an improper fraction, maintaining the same value and ensuring clarity in understanding fractions.