Fraction Calculator
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions with step-by-step solutions.
What Is the Fraction Calculator?
The fraction calculator lets you add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions. It automatically finds a common denominator, simplifies the result to its lowest terms, and shows every step so you can follow along.
Formula
How to Use
Enter the numerator and denominator for each fraction. Select the operation (+, −, ×, ÷) and click Calculate. The result will be simplified automatically.
Example Calculation
To add 1/3 + 2/5: common denominator is 15, so (1×5 + 2×3)/15 = 11/15 ≈ 0.7333.
Understanding Fraction
Fractions represent parts of a whole and are fundamental to mathematics, cooking, construction, music, and science. Despite being taught early in school, fraction arithmetic remains a common stumbling block.
Adding and subtracting fractions requires a common denominator. Multiplying fractions is simpler — just multiply numerators and denominators. Dividing fractions involves flipping the second fraction and multiplying.
Our calculator handles all four operations and automatically simplifies the result using the Euclidean algorithm to find the GCD. Step-by-step workings help you understand the process and verify the math.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are fractions simplified?
The calculator divides both numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD) to reduce the fraction to lowest terms.
Can I use negative fractions?
Yes. Enter a negative number in the numerator field. The result will show the correct sign.
What if the result is an improper fraction?
The calculator shows the result as a fraction and also as a decimal approximation. You can convert improper fractions to mixed numbers by dividing the numerator by the denominator.