Math Tools
Fraction Calculator
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions instantly. Results are automatically simplified to their lowest terms.
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5
6
Decimal:
0.8333
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Mixed Number:
5/6
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How to Calculate with Fractions
Working with fractions requires understanding how numerators and denominators interact. Our Fraction Calculator handles all four arithmetic operations and always returns results in simplified (lowest term) form.
Quick Rules for Fraction Operations
- Addition & Subtraction: Find the LCM (Least Common Multiple) of both denominators, convert, then add/subtract numerators: a/b ± c/d = (ad ± bc) / bd
- Multiplication: Multiply numerators together and denominators together: a/b × c/d = ac / bd
- Division: Multiply the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second: a/b ÷ c/d = a/b × d/c = ad / bc
Frequently Asked Questions
Unlike addition, you don't need a common denominator. You simply multiply the top numbers (numerators) together, and multiply the bottom numbers (denominators) together, then simplify.
You can only add or subtract slices of a whole if the slices are the exact same size. Finding the Lowest Common Denominator (LCD) ensures the fractional units match before calculating.
An improper fraction occurs when the numerator is larger than the denominator (e.g., 5/3). This simply means the value is greater than 1 whole, and it can be converted into a mixed number like 1 2/3.