Proper and Improper Fractions

Proper Fraction: Definition

A “Proper Fraction” is a fraction whose numerator is smaller than it’s denominator.

Example: In below figure 1/5, is a proper fraction because numerator 1 is smaller than denominator 5.

Similarly, 4/9, 3/7 and 5/8 are a proper fractions because every fraction has numerator is smaller than denominator.

Some more examples:

• 1/2

• 2.3/4

• 5/6

• 8/11

• 9/15 etc. 

All are proper fractions, where numerator is smaller than denominator.

Note: The value of a proper fraction is always less than 1.

Improper Fraction: Definition

A “Improper Fraction” is a fraction whose numerator is equal to or greater than it’s denominator.

Example: In above figure 5/2, is a improper fraction because numerator 5 is grater than denominator 2.

Similarly, 8/6, 9/7 and 4/3 are a improper fractions because every fraction has numerator is grater than denominator.

Example:

• 3/2

• 4/3

• 7/5

• 10/6

• 14/9 etc.

All are improper fractions, where numerator is greater than denominator.

Note: The value of a improper fraction is always greater than or equal to1.