Fraction Calculator
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions with automatic simplification.
How this is calculated
Add/subtract: cross-multiply denominators. Multiply: numerators × numerators. Divide: multiply by reciprocal. Simplify by GCD.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraction Calculator
A fraction calculator performs arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) on fractions and automatically simplifies results to lowest terms.
How do I add or subtract fractions?
To add/subtract, find a common denominator, convert each fraction, then add/subtract numerators. For example, 1/2 + 1/3 = 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6. This calculator handles the common denominator automatically.
How do I multiply fractions?
Multiply numerators together and denominators together. For example, 2/3 × 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2. Unlike addition/subtraction, you don't need a common denominator for multiplication.
How do I divide fractions?
Divide by multiplying by the reciprocal. For example, 1/2 ÷ 1/3 = 1/2 × 3/1 = 3/2. Flip the second fraction and multiply, then simplify.
What does simplify mean and why is it important?
Simplification means reducing a fraction to lowest terms by dividing both numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). For example, 6/8 simplifies to 3/4. Simplified fractions are easier to work with and are considered the standard form.
Can I convert between fractions and decimals?
Yes, divide numerator by denominator to get the decimal. For example, 3/4 = 0.75. To convert decimals back to fractions is more complex, but 0.75 = 75/100 = 3/4. This calculator shows both fraction and decimal results.
What is an improper fraction and mixed number?
An improper fraction has a numerator larger than denominator (e.g., 5/3). A mixed number shows whole and fractional parts separately (e.g., 1 2/3). They represent the same value: 5/3 = 1 2/3. Some calculators convert between forms automatically.