Officer Aptitude Rating (OAR) PracticeTest

When adding mixed numbers, the preferred approach is to add the whole numbers first and then the fractions. This method helps to keep the addition organized and reduces the complexity of the operation. By handling the whole numbers separately, you ensure that you're combining whole values accurately before dealing with the fractional components.

Once you have summed the whole numbers, you can then add the fractions together. If the fractions have different denominators, you would find a common denominator before this step, but the crucial part is that addressing each component (whole numbers and fractions) distinctly aids in preventing mistakes during the addition process. This systematic approach aligns well with basic arithmetic principles, as it builds from the ground up—making calculations clearer and more intuitive.

Using this method, if there is a need to convert the resulting fractions into a mixed number form afterward, this can easily be done without confusion. This systematic addition helps maintain accuracy and clarity of the solution.