Fraction Calculator
Perform any arithmetic on fractions. Shows simplified result and step-by-step solution.
Simplify a Fraction
Fraction Rules Quick Reference
- Add/Subtract: Find LCD, convert both, add/subtract numerators
- Multiply: Multiply numerators together, multiply denominators together
- Divide: Multiply by the reciprocal (flip second fraction)
- Simplify: Divide both parts by GCD
Adding, Subtracting, Multiplying and Dividing Fractions
The four operations follow different rules. To add or subtract, first give both fractions a common denominator, combine the numerators, then simplify: 1/3 + 1/6 = 2/6 + 1/6 = 3/6 = 1/2. To multiply, multiply numerators and denominators straight across: 2/3 × 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2. To divide, flip the second fraction and multiply: 1/2 ÷ 1/4 = 1/2 × 4/1 = 2.
Simplifying and Mixed Numbers
A fraction is in simplest form when the numerator and denominator share no common factor other than 1. Divide both by their greatest common divisor to reduce it — 8/12 becomes 2/3. An improper fraction like 7/4 can be written as the mixed number 1 3/4. This calculator shows the simplified result and the steps so you can follow the method, not just copy the answer.
Everyday Uses
Fractions appear in cooking measurements, woodworking and construction (inches and sixteenths), time (quarter and half hours), and probability. Combining them directly avoids the rounding errors you get from converting everything to decimals too early.