Free Fraction Calculator

Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions and mixed numbers. See every step of the work, not just the answer.

First Fraction
Second Fraction
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How to Add and Subtract Fractions

Adding and subtracting fractions requires a common denominator — both fractions must be expressed with the same bottom number.

  1. Find the least common denominator (LCD) — the smallest number that both denominators divide into evenly.
  2. Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD.
  3. Add (or subtract) the numerators. Keep the denominator the same.
  4. Simplify the result if possible.

Example: 1/2 + 1/3. The LCD of 2 and 3 is 6. So 1/2 = 3/6 and 1/3 = 2/6. Add: 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6.

How to Multiply Fractions

Multiplying fractions is the easiest of the four operations:

  1. Multiply the numerators (top numbers).
  2. Multiply the denominators (bottom numbers).
  3. Simplify if possible.

Example: 2/3 × 4/5 = (2×4)/(3×5) = 8/15. No common denominator needed.

Tip: You can sometimes simplify before multiplying by canceling common factors. For example, 2/3 × 3/4 = 2/4 = 1/2 after canceling the 3s diagonally.

How to Divide Fractions

Dividing fractions uses the "Keep, Change, Flip" rule (also called multiplying by the reciprocal):

  1. Keep the first fraction the same.
  2. Change the division sign to multiplication.
  3. Flip the second fraction (swap numerator and denominator).
  4. Multiply the result.
  5. Simplify if possible.

Example: 2/3 ÷ 4/5 becomes 2/3 × 5/4 = 10/12 = 5/6.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enter a mixed number like 2 1/3?

Use the whole-number field on the left of the fraction. Type 2 in the small box, then 1 in the numerator and 3 in the denominator. The calculator will treat this as 2 + 1/3 = 7/3.

What's the difference between an improper fraction and a mixed number?

An improper fraction has a numerator larger than its denominator (e.g., 7/3). A mixed number writes the same value as a whole number plus a proper fraction (2 1/3). They represent the same value — just written differently.

What does "simplify" mean?

Simplifying (or "reducing") a fraction means dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). For example, 6/12 simplifies to 1/2 because GCD(6,12) = 6, so 6÷6 = 1 and 12÷6 = 2.

Can I use negative fractions?

Yes. Enter a negative whole number (like -2 in the whole field) or a negative numerator (like -1) to make the fraction negative. The calculator handles negative results correctly.

Why doesn't the visual bar show for fractions bigger than 1?

For improper fractions like 7/3, the visual bar caps at 1 whole — but in the result we'll show multiple bars or a mixed-number visualization where applicable.

What grade learns fractions?

Fractions are introduced in Grade 2-3 visually (halves, thirds, fourths). Adding/subtracting fractions with like denominators starts in Grade 3. Unlike denominators come in Grade 4-5. Multiplication and division of fractions are typically Grade 5-6.