Shortcut Trick
For fractions with the same difference between numerator and denominator (gap = 1), the one with larger digits is greater: 11/12 > 7/8 > 5/6.
Compare the largest from this group (11/12) with the remaining fraction (17/20) using cross-multiplication.
11 × 20 = 220 and 12 × 17 = 204.
Since 220 > 204, 11/12 is the largest fraction among all given options.
∴ The correct answer is 11/12.
Alternate Method
Given: Fractions 5/6, 7/8, 11/12, and 17/20.
Method: To compare fractions, convert them to a common denominator using the LCM of (6, 8, 12, 20).
⇒ LCM of 6, 8, 12, and 20 is 120.
⇒ 5/6 = (5 × 20) / (6 × 20) = 100/120
⇒ 7/8 = (7 × 15) / (8 × 15) = 105/120
⇒ 11/12 = (11 × 10) / (12 × 10) = 110/120
⇒ 17/20 = (17 × 6) / (20 × 6) = 102/120
⇒ Comparing the numerators: 110 > 105 > 102 > 100.
⇒ Therefore, 110/120 is the largest value.
∴ The correct answer is 11/12.
Additional Information
Proper Fraction Comparison Rule
If the difference between the numerator and denominator is constant for multiple proper fractions, the fraction with the largest numbers is the largest.
Cross Multiplication Rule
To compare a/b and c/d, check (a × d) and (b × c). If a × d > b × c, then a c/d.
Decimal Conversion
Fractions can also be compared by dividing the numerator by the denominator to get decimal values (e.g., 5/6 ≈ 0.83, 7/8 = 0.875).