Fraction Calculator

How to use

1. Enter two fractions like “3/4” (integers such as “5” are fine).
2. Choose an operation: + − × ÷.
3. Press “Calculate” to see the answer, mixed number, and steps.

Examples

• 1/2 + 1/3 = 5/6
• 3/4 × 2/5 = 3/10
• 5/6 ÷ 2/3 = 5/4 = 1 1/4

When to use it (grade level)

Fractions are taught in earnest from around 5th grade and become the foundation for algebra in middle school. This tool is handy for checking home study, reviewing worksheets, and confirming your work before a test. It shows the steps, so it also helps parents who want to refresh the basics.

A fraction shows how many equal parts of a whole you have. For example, 3/4 means three parts out of four. The top number is the numerator and the bottom number is the denominator.

How to work it out yourself

For addition and subtraction, first make the denominators match (find a common denominator). Use the least common multiple of the denominators, then multiply each numerator and denominator by the same number. For example, 1/2 + 1/3 becomes 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6.

For multiplication, do not find a common denominator — just multiply numerators together and denominators together. 3/4 × 2/5 = 6/20, which simplifies to 3/10. For division, flip the second fraction (use its reciprocal) and multiply: 5/6 ÷ 2/3 = 5/6 × 3/2 = 15/12, which simplifies to 5/4.

When you finish, divide the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor to reach the simplest form.

Mixed numbers and improper fractions

A form like 1 1/4 that combines a whole number and a fraction is a mixed number, while a form like 5/4 whose numerator is at least as large as the denominator is an improper fraction. Converting to an improper fraction before calculating helps avoid mistakes, and writing the answer as a mixed number makes its size easier to picture. 1 1/4 equals (4×1+1)/4 = 5/4, and 5/4 equals 5÷4 = 1 remainder 1, or 1 1/4.

Common mistakes

Three slip-ups are common. First, forgetting to find a common denominator — writing 1/2 + 1/3 as 2/5 without matching the denominators. Second, forgetting to simplify — 6/20 must be reduced to 3/10. Third, mishandling mixed numbers, such as forgetting the whole-number part or getting a sign wrong during addition or subtraction.

It also confuses many learners that multiplication needs no common denominator. Remember: common denominators for addition and subtraction, none for multiplication and division.

Related topics and tools

Common denominators use the least common multiple and simplifying uses the greatest common divisor, so pairing this with the GCD and LCM calculator deepens your understanding. Prime factorization also helps you simplify quickly. Try each problem yourself first, then use this tool to check the steps.

FAQ

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