Adding Fractions Calculator

How to Use the Adding Fractions Calculator

1. Choose the Number of Fractions: Use the dropdown menu to select how many fractions you want to add or subtract. The default setting is 4 fractions, but you can choose between 2 and 10.

2. Enter Numerators and Denominators: For each fraction, enter the numerator (top number) and denominator (bottom number). The input fields are clearly labeled and aligned, making it easy to enter your values.

3. Select the Operator: By default, the calculator is set to add fractions. However, you can choose to subtract any of the fractions by selecting the “−” option from the dropdown next to the relevant fraction.

4. Calculate: Click the “Calculate” button to perform the addition or subtraction of the fractions. The result will be displayed at the bottom of the calculator.

5. View the Explanation: Below the result, the calculator will show a step-by-step explanation of how the calculation was performed, including how the fractions were adjusted to have the same denominator, the sum of the numerators, and how the result was simplified.

Example Calculations

Example 1: Adding Fractions

Let’s add the fractions $\frac{1}{4} + \frac{2}{3}$

• Step 1: The LCD of 4 and 3 is 12.
• Step 2: Adjust the fractions to have the same denominator: $$\frac{1}{4}\times \frac{3}{3}=\frac{3}{12},\frac{2}{3}\times \frac{4}{4}=\frac{8}{12}$$
• Step 3: Add the numerators: $$\frac{3}{12}+\frac{8}{12}=\frac{11}{12}$$
• Final Result: $\frac{11}{12}$

Example 2: Subtracting Fractions

Now, let’s subtract the fractions $\frac{5}{6} – \frac{1}{2}$

• Step 1: The LCD of 6 and 2 is 6.
• Step 2: Adjust the fractions to have the same denominator: $$\frac{5}{6}\times \frac{1}{1}=\frac{5}{6},\frac{1}{2}\times \frac{3}{3}=\frac{3}{6}$$
• Step 3: Subtract the numerators: $$\frac{5}{6}-\frac{3}{6}=\frac{2}{6}$$
• Step 4: Simplify the result: $$\frac{2}{6}=\frac{1}{3}$$
• Final Result: $\frac{1}{3}$

Quick Tips

• Denominators Matter: Make sure the denominator you enter is not zero, as dividing by zero is undefined.
• Check Your Inputs: Ensure all inputs are correct before calculating to avoid errors.
• Simplify: The calculator automatically simplifies the result, but understanding how it’s done can help reinforce your knowledge of fractions.