About the Fraction Calculator
The Fraction Calculator handles addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of any two fractions, including mixed numbers and improper fractions. Results are automatically reduced to their simplest form using the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD). The decimal equivalent is also shown. All calculations run entirely in your browser.
How to Perform Fraction Operations
- Addition and subtraction — find the Lowest Common Denominator (LCD), convert both fractions, then add or subtract the numerators. This calculator does all of this automatically.
- Multiplication — multiply numerators together and denominators together: (a/b) × (c/d) = (ac)/(bd)
- Division — multiply by the reciprocal of the second fraction: (a/b) ÷ (c/d) = (a/b) × (d/c) = (ad)/(bc)
Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions
A mixed number (e.g. 2½) combines a whole number with a proper fraction. To calculate with mixed numbers, convert them to improper fractions first: multiply the whole number by the denominator and add the numerator (e.g. 2½ = 5/2). This calculator accepts mixed number input directly and handles the conversion for you.
Simplifying Fractions (Lowest Terms)
A fraction is in its simplest (or lowest) form when the numerator and denominator share no common factors other than 1. The simplification process involves finding the GCD of the numerator and denominator, then dividing both by it. For example, 8/12 simplifies to 2/3 because the GCD of 8 and 12 is 4.
Practical Uses for a Fraction Calculator
- Maths homework and exam revision for GCSE and A-Level students
- Scaling recipes up or down in the kitchen
- Working with measurements in woodworking, engineering, or construction
- Financial calculations involving fractional interest rates or share prices
- Understanding probabilities and ratios in statistics
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