How to use the fraction calculator
- Enter the numerator (top number) and denominator (bottom number) of the first fraction.
- Choose an operation: add, subtract, multiply or divide.
- Enter the second fraction. Use a negative numerator for negative fractions, and a denominator of 1 for whole numbers.
- Read the simplified answer, the mixed number and decimal equivalents, and the step-by-step solution.
Fraction rules
After any operation, simplify the result by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD).
Examples
Adding fractions: 1/2 + 1/3
The common denominator is 2 × 3 = 6. Rewrite: 1/2 = 3/6 and 1/3 = 2/6. Add the numerators: 3 + 2 = 5, so the answer is 5/6.
Subtracting fractions: 3/4 − 1/6
Cross-multiply: (3 × 6 − 1 × 4) / (4 × 6) = 14/24, which simplifies to 7/12.
Multiplying fractions: 2/3 × 3/5
Multiply straight across: (2 × 3) / (3 × 5) = 6/15 = 2/5.
Dividing fractions: 3/4 ÷ 1/2
Flip the second fraction and multiply: 3/4 × 2/1 = 6/4 = 3/2, or 1 1/2 as a mixed number.
How to simplify a fraction
Find the largest number that divides evenly into both the numerator and the denominator, then divide both by it. For 18/24, the greatest common divisor is 6, so 18/24 = 3/4. A fraction is fully simplified when the only common divisor is 1.
Converting mixed numbers
To enter a mixed number such as 2 1/3, convert it to an improper fraction first: multiply the whole number by the denominator and add the numerator — 2 × 3 + 1 = 7 — so 2 1/3 = 7/3.
Frequently asked questions
How do you add fractions with different denominators?
Find a common denominator, rewrite each fraction with that denominator, then add the numerators. For example, 1/4 + 1/6 = 3/12 + 2/12 = 5/12.
How do you divide fractions?
Keep the first fraction, change division to multiplication, and flip the second fraction (use its reciprocal). Then multiply: 2/3 ÷ 4/5 = 2/3 × 5/4 = 10/12 = 5/6.
How do I convert a fraction to a decimal?
Divide the numerator by the denominator. For example, 3/8 = 3 ÷ 8 = 0.375. The calculator shows the decimal form of every answer.
What is an improper fraction?
An improper fraction has a numerator larger than or equal to its denominator, like 7/4. It can be written as a mixed number: 7/4 = 1 3/4.
Can I use negative fractions?
Yes. Enter a negative numerator, such as −3 over 4 for −3/4. The calculator keeps the sign on the numerator in the final answer.
Results are rounded for display. For academic or professional work, double-check critical calculations and follow the rounding rules your teacher, school or organization requires.
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