Fraction Calculator
Do arithmetic with fractions, mixed numbers or whole numbers and get a fully simplified answer with the steps shown.
How to use the Fraction Calculator
- Enter the first fraction – Examples: 3/4, 1 1/2, -2/5, 3, 0.25.
- Choose the operation.
- Enter the second fraction.
- Press Calculate. The result updates automatically as you type.
About the Fraction Calculator
Fractions show up in recipes, woodworking, medication doses and algebra homework. The rules are simple but easy to slip on: you need a common denominator to add or subtract, you multiply straight across, and you divide by flipping the second fraction and multiplying.
Type mixed numbers with a space, such as 2 3/8, and negative values with a leading minus sign. Decimals like 0.25 are converted to exact fractions. The answer is given as a simplified improper fraction, as a mixed number and as a decimal, and the step table mirrors how a teacher would expect the work to be written.
Formula
a/b + c/d = (a·d + c·b) / (b·d)
a/b − c/d = (a·d − c·b) / (b·d)
a/b × c/d = (a·c) / (b·d)
a/b ÷ c/d = (a·d) / (b·c)
For adding and subtracting, the calculator uses the least common denominator so the numbers stay small, then divides the result by the greatest common factor to simplify it.
Example calculation
Using the default values:
- First fraction = 1 1/2
- Operation = Add (+)
- Second fraction = 2/3
the calculator returns:
- Result (simplified): 13/6
- Mixed number: 2 1/6
- Decimal: 2.16666667
Frequently asked questions
How do you add fractions with different denominators?
Find the least common denominator, rewrite both fractions with it, add the numerators and simplify. 1/2 + 2/3 = 3/6 + 4/6 = 7/6 = 1 1/6.
How do you divide fractions?
Keep the first fraction, change division to multiplication, and flip the second fraction. 3/4 ÷ 1/2 = 3/4 × 2/1 = 6/4 = 1 1/2.
How do I enter a mixed number?
Type the whole number, a space, then the fraction, for example 1 1/2. For a negative mixed number type -1 1/2.
Do I have to simplify before multiplying?
No. Canceling common factors first keeps numbers smaller, but simplifying at the end gives the same answer.
Last updated: · Category: Math calculators