1. The problem asks to convert the mixed number 3 1/4 into an improper fraction. 2. A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction. To convert it to an improper fraction, use the formula: $$\text{Improper fraction} = \frac{(\text{whole number} \times \text{denominator}) + \text{numerator}}{\text{denominator}}$$ 3. Here, the whole number is 3, the numerator is 1, and the denominator is 4. 4. Substitute these values into the formula: $$\frac{(3 \times 4) + 1}{4}$$ 5. Calculate the numerator: $$\frac{12 + 1}{4} = \frac{13}{4}$$ 6. So, 3 1/4 as an improper fraction is $$\frac{13}{4}$$ cups of beans. This fraction is greater than one, as required.