Question

$- 3 \frac{3}{4} + (- 5 \frac{1}{2}) = $

Explanation:

Step1: Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions

$-3\frac{3}{4}=-\frac{3\times4 + 3}{4}=-\frac{15}{4}$, $-5\frac{1}{2}=-\frac{5\times2+1}{2}=-\frac{11}{2}$

Step2: Find a common denominator and add

The common denominator of 4 and 2 is 4. So $-\frac{11}{2}=-\frac{11\times2}{2\times2}=-\frac{22}{4}$
Now add: $-\frac{15}{4}+(-\frac{22}{4})=-\frac{15 + 22}{4}=-\frac{37}{4}$

Step3: Convert back to mixed number (optional)

$-\frac{37}{4}=-9\frac{1}{4}$

Answer:

$-9\frac{1}{4}$ (or $-\frac{37}{4}$)