Our free online fraction calculator helps you perform arithmetic operations with fractions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) while showing results in fraction, decimal, and mixed number formats. Perfect for students, teachers, and anyone working with fractions.
Advanced Fraction Calculator
How to Use the Fraction Calculator
- Enter numerators and denominators for both fractions
- Select an operation (+, -, ×, ÷)
- Click “Calculate” to see results in three formats
- Results show as simplified fractions, decimals, and mixed numbers
Understanding Fractions: A Quick Guide
Fractions represent parts of a whole. They consist of:
- Numerator (top number): How many parts you have
- Denominator (bottom number): How many equal parts the whole is divided into
Examples:
- 1/2 = One half of a pizza
- 3/4 = Three quarters of a cup
How to Simplify Fractions
To reduce fractions to their simplest form:
- Find the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator.
- Divide both numbers by the GCD.
Example:
Simplify 4/8:
- GCD of 4 and 8 = 4
- 4 ÷ 4 = 1, 8 ÷ 4 = 2
- Simplified fraction = 1/2
(Tip: Our calculator automatically simplifies results!)
Real-World Applications of Fractions
Fractions are used everywhere:
- Cooking: Measuring ingredients (e.g., 1/2 teaspoon salt)
- Construction: Cutting materials to specific lengths
- Finance: Calculating interest rates (e.g., 3 1/2%)
- Healthcare: Dosage measurements for medications
FAQ About Fractions
1. How to add fractions with different denominators?
- Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD).
- Convert both fractions to equivalent fractions with the LCD.
- Add the numerators.
Example:
1/3 + 1/6 = (2/6) + (1/6) = 3/6 = 1/2
2. Can denominators be negative?
No! Denominators must always be positive integers.
3. What’s the difference between proper and improper fractions?
- Proper: Numerator < Denominator (e.g., 2/3)
- Improper: Numerator ≥ Denominator (e.g., 5/2)
Tips for Teaching Fractions to Kids
- Use visual aids like pie charts or fraction bars.
- Relate to everyday items (e.g., slicing apples).
- Start with simple examples (1/2, 1/4) before moving to complex ones.
Why Choose Our Fraction Calculator?
✅ Instant results in fraction, decimal, and mixed number formats
✅ Works offline after initial page load
✅ 100% free with no sign-up required
Try These Practice Problems!
Test your skills with these exercises (answers below):
- 2/5 + 3/5 = ?
- 7/8 – 1/4 = ?
- 1/3 × 2/9 = ?
- 3/4 ÷ 2/3 = ?
Answers:
- 1 (5/5 = 1 whole)
- 5/8
- 2/27
- 9/8 (or 1 1/8)
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a student, teacher, or DIY enthusiast, mastering fractions is essential. Bookmark this page for quick calculations anytime!
Learn more about fractions and rational numbers from Khan Academy’s Math Resources.