A fraction is usually split into two parts: the first part is the number on top, called the numerator; and the second part is the number on the bottom, called the denominator. These are both separated by a line called the “divisor line”. We can use the division method help to solve this question: to get a decimal, simply divide the numerator 87 by the denominator 42 (which you can enter in any calculator):
87 (numerator) ÷ 42 (denominator) = 2.07
And finally, you get 2.07 as your answer when you convert 1 45/42 (or 87/42) to a decimal.