Fraction Calculator

About the Fraction Calculator

Our free online fraction calculator makes working with fractions easy for students of all ages. Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions with automatic simplification and detailed step-by-step explanations. Perfect for elementary, middle school, and high school students learning fraction arithmetic.

Fraction Operations Supported

Addition

Add two fractions by finding the Least Common Denominator (LCD) and converting both fractions to equivalent fractions with the same denominator. Example: 1/2 + 1/3 = 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6

Subtraction

Subtract fractions using the same LCD method as addition. The calculator shows how to find common denominators and subtract numerators correctly.

Multiplication

Multiply fractions by multiplying numerators together and denominators together. Example: 1/2 × 2/3 = (1×2)/(2×3) = 2/6 = 1/3 (simplified)

Division

Divide fractions by multiplying the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second. Example: 1/2 ÷ 2/3 = 1/2 × 3/2 = 3/4

How to Use the Fraction Calculator

1. Enter first fraction - Input numerator and denominator
2. Select operation - Choose +, -, ×, or ÷
3. Enter second fraction - Input the second fraction's values
4. Click Calculate - Get instant results with steps
5. View solution - See the simplified answer and working

Key Features

• Automatic Simplification - Results are always in lowest terms
• LCD Calculation - Shows how to find Least Common Denominator
• Step-by-Step Work - See every step of the calculation
• All Operations - Add, subtract, multiply, and divide
• Mixed Number Support - Works with proper and improper fractions
• Visual Feedback - Clear display of fractions and results

Understanding Fractions

What is a Fraction?

A fraction represents a part of a whole. It consists of:

• Numerator - The top number (how many parts you have)
• Denominator - The bottom number (total parts in the whole)

Types of Fractions

• Proper Fraction - Numerator < Denominator (e.g., 3/4)
• Improper Fraction - Numerator >= Denominator (e.g., 5/4)
• Mixed Number - Whole number + fraction (e.g., 1¼)

Simplifying Fractions

To simplify a fraction, divide both numerator and denominator by their Greatest Common Divisor (GCD). For example: 6/8 = 3/4 (both divided by 2).

Step-by-Step Examples

Adding Fractions

Example: 1/4 + 2/3

1. Find LCD: LCD of 4 and 3 = 12
2. Convert: 1/4 = 3/12 and 2/3 = 8/12
3. Add numerators: 3/12 + 8/12 = 11/12
4. Result: 11/12 (already simplified)

Multiplying Fractions

Example: 2/3 × 3/4

1. Multiply numerators: 2 × 3 = 6
2. Multiply denominators: 3 × 4 = 12
3. Result: 6/12
4. Simplify: 6/12 = 1/2

Educational Benefits

This fraction calculator helps students:

• Learn the Process - Understand how fraction operations work
• Verify Homework - Check answers and catch mistakes
• Build Confidence - Practice with immediate feedback
• Master Simplification - See how to reduce fractions properly
• Understand LCD - Learn to find least common denominators
• Prepare for Tests - Practice for exams and assessments

Common Use Cases

• Elementary math homework (Class 5-7)
• CBSE and ICSE curriculum fraction problems
• Cooking and recipe conversions
• Measurement calculations
• Test preparation and practice
• Learning fraction arithmetic concepts

Tips for Working with Fractions

• Always simplify your final answer to lowest terms
• When adding/subtracting, you MUST have common denominators
• When multiplying, multiply straight across (no common denominator needed)
• When dividing, flip the second fraction and multiply
• Check if your answer makes sense (is it larger or smaller than expected?)
• Practice finding GCD and LCD to improve speed

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I add fractions with different denominators?

Find the LCD (Least Common Denominator), convert both fractions to equivalent fractions with that denominator, then add the numerators. Our calculator shows this process step-by-step.

What's the difference between GCD and LCD?

GCD (Greatest Common Divisor) is used to simplify fractions. LCD (Least Common Denominator) is used when adding or subtracting fractions with different denominators.

Can this calculator handle mixed numbers?

Yes! You can enter mixed numbers or improper fractions. The calculator will handle the conversion and show you the proper working.

Why is simplification important?

Simplified fractions are easier to understand and compare. They represent the same value in the simplest form possible, which is the standard way to express answers in mathematics.

Why Use Our Fraction Calculator?

Our fraction calculator is specifically designed for Indian students following CBSE, ICSE, and State Board curricula. It not only provides answers but teaches the methodology, helping students build strong foundational math skills. The step-by-step approach makes it an excellent learning tool, not just a homework shortcut.