What number should be subtracted from the sum of 2 $\frac{1}{6}$ and 2$\frac{7}{12}$ to give 3$\frac{1}{4}$?

Step 1: Analyze the question We add 2 1/6 and 2 7/12, then find what number must be subtracted from that sum to leave 3 1/4.

Step 2: Add the two mixed numbers Convert to twelfths:

• 2 1/6 = 2 2/12
• 2 7/12 = 2 7/12

Sum = 4 9/12 = 4 3/4

Step 3: Set up the equation Let the number be x:

4 3/4 − x = 3 1/4

x = 4 3/4 − 3 1/4 = 1 2/4 = 1 1/2

Step 4: Check 4 3/4 − 1 1/2 = 4 3/4 − 1 2/4 = 3 1/4 ✓

Answer: 1 1/2, which is option B.

Tip: For "what should be subtracted from A to give B" questions, the answer is always A − B. Always convert mixed numbers to a common denominator first, and check by substituting your answer back.