How Do You Write Two and One Half in Numbers?

Two and one half can be written in numbers in two common ways: as a mixed number (2 1/2) or as an improper fraction (5/2).

Mixed Number Representation

The most common way to write "two and one half" is as a mixed number:

• 2 1/2

This represents 2 whole units plus one half of a unit.

Improper Fraction Representation

Alternatively, "two and one half" can be represented as an improper fraction:

• 5/2

This means five halves. To convert the mixed number to an improper fraction, you can do the following:

1. Multiply the whole number (2) by the denominator (2): 2 * 2 = 4
2. Add the numerator (1): 4 + 1 = 5
3. Place the result (5) over the original denominator (2): 5/2

Both 2 1/2 and 5/2 represent the same value.