1. **State the problem:** Convert a mixed number to an improper fraction. 2. **Formula:** For a mixed number $a \frac{b}{c}$, the improper fraction is given by: $$\frac{a \times c + b}{c}$$ where $a$ is the whole number, $b$ is the numerator, and $c$ is the denominator. 3. **Explanation:** Multiply the whole number by the denominator, then add the numerator. This sum becomes the new numerator, and the denominator stays the same. 4. **Example:** Convert $3 \frac{2}{5}$ to an improper fraction. Calculate numerator: $$3 \times 5 + 2 = 15 + 2 = 17$$ So the improper fraction is: $$\frac{17}{5}$$ 5. **Summary:** To convert any mixed number to an improper fraction, multiply the whole number by the denominator, add the numerator, and place the result over the original denominator.