Adding and Subtracting Fractions
Adding and subtracting fractions is easy. First we convert the fractions to improper fractions if they are mixed fractions already (read the tutorial on how to do that first). If the fraction is already improper or proper, then there is no need for this step. Then we make sure each fraction has the same denominator. Lets use an example, say I have 1/6 and 1/2. The denominators are 6 and 2. Since 6 is 3 times bigger than 2, I can simply the denominator by 3 to get 6. When I multiply the denominator I also need to multiply the numerator by the same amount. So now I have 1/6 and 3/6. I add the numerators together which are 1 and 3 to get 4. Then I combine this with the denominator of 6 and and I get 4/6, which I simplify to get 2/3. So to review, first we make sure the fractions are both improper or proper, then we make sure each fraction has the same denominator, and finally we add the numerators and combine with the denominator.
Fractions Home Page