Turn the fraction in the parentheses into a mixed number to make your life easier. Do this by multiplying the whole number by the denominator, and add the numerator to that result, so:
1/3 + (-9/4)
Now we have to find a common denominator for the two fractions. You can do this by multiplying the two denominators and using that as your LCD.
So now we have
4/12 + (-27/12)
Now, all you have to do is add the two numerators.
4/12 - 27/12 = -23/12 or (-1 and 11/12)
