How to work with fractions
- Add / subtract: use a common denominator, then add or subtract the numerators. 1/2 + 1/3 = 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6.
- Multiply: multiply across — numerator × numerator, denominator × denominator. 2/3 × 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2.
- Divide: flip the second fraction and multiply. 2/3 ÷ 3/4 = 2/3 × 4/3 = 8/9.
Simplifying and mixed numbers
Every answer is reduced to lowest terms by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor — see the GCF calculator for that step on its own. Improper fractions are also shown as a mixed number, so 5/3 appears as 1 2/3.
Frequently asked questions
How do you add fractions?
Give both fractions a common denominator, add the numerators, and simplify. For 1/2 + 1/3, the common denominator is 6, so it becomes 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6. This calculator finds the common denominator and simplifies for you.
How do you multiply and divide fractions?
To multiply, multiply the numerators together and the denominators together: 2/3 × 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2. To divide, flip the second fraction and multiply: 2/3 ÷ 3/4 = 2/3 × 4/3 = 8/9.
How do you simplify a fraction?
Divide the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). For 6/8, the GCD is 2, so it simplifies to 3/4. The calculator always returns the answer in lowest terms.
What is a mixed number?
A mixed number combines a whole number with a proper fraction, like 1 1/2. Any improper fraction (where the numerator is larger than the denominator) can be written as a mixed number — 5/3 becomes 1 2/3.
Can I use negative fractions?
Yes. Enter a negative sign on the numerator and the calculator handles the sign correctly through every operation, returning a properly signed, simplified result.
Disclaimer: A denominator of zero is undefined, and so is dividing by a fraction equal to zero. Results are provided for educational purposes.