What is 6 1/2 + 5 7/8= ?

+ 

First, add the whole numbers before doing anything else (the 5 and the 6) . / Your problem should look like: 11 +  + 
Second, find the least common denominator (LCD) 
Multiples of 2: 2, 4, 6, 8
Multiples of 8: 8
The LCD is 8.
Third, make the denominators the same as the LCD (8) / Your problem should look like: 11 +  + 
Fourth, now that the denominators are the same, you can simplify. / Your problem should look like: 11 +  + 
Fifth, combine/join the denominators. / Your problem should look like: 11 + 
Sixth, simplify. / Your problem should look like: 11 + 
Seventh, convert  to a mixed fraction. / Your problem should look like: 11 + 
Eighth, simplify. / Your problem should look like: 

Answer as fraction: 
Answer as decimal: 12.375