A mixed number is a way to represent a quantity that includes both a whole number and a fraction. For example, the mixed number 2 3/4 consists of the whole number 2 and the fraction 3/4. Mixed numbers are often used in everyday situations, such as cooking or measuring, where quantities are not whole. To convert a mixed number into an improper fraction, you multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fraction and then add the numerator. For instance, in 2 3/4, you would calculate 2 × 4 + 3 to get 11/4. This method helps in performing calculations with mixed numbers more easily.