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 142 by the denominator 8 (which you can enter in any calculator):
142 (numerator) ÷ 8 (denominator) = 17.75
And finally, you get 17.75 as your answer when you convert 12 46/8 (or 142/8) to a decimal.