Specify fractions and mixed numbers

Updated 28 Aug 2023

In the Edit Algorithmic Values window, you can define algorithmic values for the parts of a mixed number or fraction. To do so:

  1. Create an integer algorithmic value for the integer part of the mixed number, if applicable.
  2. Create integer algorithmic values for the numerator and denominator of the fraction.
  3. For your fraction or mixed number, create another algorithmic value for the fraction or mixed number. For this algorithmic value:
    • Select the Algebraic or Numeric Expression type.
    • Select the equal sign (=) as the operator in the Relational Operator column.

Your entry in the Constraint Value column depends on whether you create a fraction or a mixed number.

For fractions, in the Constraint Value column, type ~a/~b, where ~a is the algorithmic value you created for the numerator and ~b is the algorithmic value you created for the denominator.

When you save this value, a built-up fraction displays in your question-and-answer area.

For mixed numbers:

  1. Click on the first row under Constraint Value, then right-click and select Editing Options > Insert Mixed Number from the menu.
  2.  The syntax @MNUM{a;b;c} displays in the Constraints Value column.
  3. Replace a with the algorithmic value (preceded by a tilde) that you created for the integer part of the mixed number.
  4. Replace b with the algorithmic value (preceded by a tilde) that you created for the numerator.
  5. Replace c with the algorithmic value (preceded by a tilde) that you created for the denominator.

When you save this value, the mixed number displays in your question-and-answer area.

Suppose that you want to create a mixed number and you have already created the following algorithmic values:

  • int - the integer in the mixed number, which is between 0 and 100.
  • num - the numerator in your fraction, which is between 0 and 50.
  • den - the denominator in your fraction, which is between 1 and 100.

To create your mixed number in the Edit Algorithmic Value window, you'll:

  1. Create a new algorithmic value, mix.
  2. Define the type as an Algebraic or Numeric Expression.
  3. Select the equal sign (=) from the Relational Operator dropdown list.
  4. Click on the first row under Constraint Value, then right-click and select Editing Options > Insert Mixed Number.
  5. In the Constraint Value column, edit @MNUM{a;b;c} as follows:

    @MNUM{~int;~num;~den}

  6. On the Options tab page, optionally enter authoring notes.
  7. Save your algorithmic value.

Your Algorithmic Values List looks like this:

When you insert mix into your question, the mixed number displays in your question-and-answer area in the following format:

See Specify functions for an example of using functions to create reduced fractions and mixed numbers.

 

See also: Create and edit algorithmic values | Work with algorithmic values