Question

what is the value of $12.5 - \frac{31}{2} + 1\frac{1}{4}$?
a $-20.25$
b $-17.25$
c $-\frac{17}{4}$
d $-\frac{7}{4}$

Explanation:

Step1: Convert all to decimals

$12.5 = 12.5$, $\frac{31}{2}=15.5$, $1\frac{1}{4}=1.25$

Step2: Substitute into expression

$12.5 - 15.5 + 1.25$

Step3: Calculate left to right

$12.5 - 15.5 = -3$

Step4: Add remaining value

$-3 + 1.25 = -1.75$

Step5: Convert to fraction

$-1.75 = -\frac{7}{4}$

Answer:

D. $-\frac{7}{4}$