Fraction Calculator
Add, subtract, multiply and divide fractions, with the steps shown.
What it does
Enter two fractions โ each with an optional whole part, so 1ยฝ is 1 and 1/2 โ pick the operation, and read the result as a simplified fraction, a mixed number and a decimal. The working is shown underneath: the common denominator found, the conversion of each fraction, and the final reduction. It is exact integer arithmetic throughout, so 1/3 stays 1/3 rather than becoming 0.333โฆ
The rules it is demonstrating
Adding and subtracting need a common denominator, because only like pieces can be added: 1/2 + 1/3 becomes 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6. The calculator uses the least common denominator so the numbers stay small.
Multiplying is straight across: numerators together, denominators together. Dividing flips the second fraction and multiplies โ dividing by 1/2 is doubling, which is the intuition behind the rule. Results always reduce by the greatest common divisor, so 4/8 comes back as 1/2.
The classic mistake this catches: adding straight across (1/2 + 1/3 is not 2/5). If the homework says "show your working", the steps here are the working. Decimals and percentages of the same quantities live in the percentage calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add fractions with different denominators?
Convert both to a common denominator, then add the numerators: 1/2 + 1/3 = 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6. The calculator shows this step explicitly.
How do I divide fractions?
Multiply by the reciprocal: flip the second fraction. 1/2 รท 1/4 = 1/2 ร 4/1 = 2.
How do I enter a mixed number like 2ยพ?
Put 2 in the whole-number box and 3/4 in the fraction. The calculator converts to 11/4 internally and gives answers both ways.
Why is the answer simplified?
Fractions are conventionally given in lowest terms โ top and bottom divided by their greatest common divisor โ so 6/8 is reported as 3/4, with that step shown.