Fraction Calculator
Every fraction operation has its own rule, and the answer is usually reduced at the end. Enter two fractions and an operation to get the result already simplified, plus its decimal value.
Your numbers
Result
- As a decimal
- 0.83
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Operation | 1/2 + 1/3 |
| Result | 5/6 |
| Simplified | 5/6 |
| As a decimal | 0.833333 |
Adding and subtracting fractions
To add or subtract, you need a common denominator. Cross-multiply and combine the numerators: a/b + c/d = (a·d + c·b) / (b·d). So 1/2 + 1/3 = (3 + 2)/6 = 5/6. Then reduce by dividing top and bottom by their greatest common divisor.
Multiplying and dividing
Multiplying is direct — numerator times numerator, denominator times denominator (a/b × c/d = ac/bd). Dividing means multiplying by the reciprocal: a/b ÷ c/d = a/b × d/c. That is why dividing by 1/2 is the same as multiplying by 2.
Simplifying the result
A fraction should be written in lowest terms by dividing both parts by their greatest common divisor. 6/8 becomes 3/4. A denominator of 1 means the result is a whole number. This calculator returns the simplified fraction and the decimal automatically.
Frequently asked questions
Sources
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