Fraction Calculator: Add, Subtract, Multiply & Divide
Instant, easy online fraction calculator for adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, and simplifying fractions with clear step-by-step solutions.
Select the mathematical operation to perform
Choose how you want the result displayed
Result
Mixed Number
5/6
Simplified Result
5/6
Mixed Number
5/6
Decimal
0.8333
Percentage
83.33%
Visual Representation
Step-by-Step Solution
1/2+1/3 = 5/6
Simplified to lowest terms
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What Is This Calculator?
A fraction represents a part of a whole, expressed in the form a/b, where a is the numerator and b is the denominator. Fractions appear everywhere — in math class, measurements, construction, finance, and everyday calculations. However, manual fraction arithmetic can be slow, confusing, and error-prone.
The Fraction Calculator solves this problem by performing complex fraction calculations instantly and accurately. It supports proper fractions, improper fractions, mixed numbers, and decimal-to-fraction conversions, providing step-by-step solutions that help users understand the logic behind each result.
Designed for global users, the tool is clean, intuitive, and suited for students, teachers, professionals, and anyone who wants quick and reliable fraction math.
How It Works - Step-By-Step Guide
1. Entering Fractions
The calculator accepts multiple fraction formats to keep things simple:
- • Proper fractions (e.g., 3/4)
- • Improper fractions (e.g., 9/5)
- • Mixed numbers (e.g., 1 1/2)
- • Decimals (e.g., 0.875)
- • Whole numbers (e.g., 5)
You can enter either two fractions or multiple values depending on the calculation.
Valid Input Examples: 7/9, 1 3/4, 12/7, 0.25
The tool automatically converts everything into a fraction format internally.
2. Choosing the Operation (+, –, ×, ÷)
Select the operation you want to perform:
- • Addition (+) — Find the combined value of two fractions
- • Subtraction (–) — Find the difference
- • Multiplication (×) — Scale one fraction by another
- • Division (÷) — Determine how many times one fraction fits into another
The calculator instantly applies the correct rules, including common denominators for addition/subtraction and cross-multiplication for division.
3. Understanding Results (Simplified Form & Decimals)
After computation, the tool displays:
- • Simplified fraction
- • Mixed number
- • Decimal equivalent
- • Step-by-step working
This helps you understand how the answer was reached, not just what it is.
4. Tips for Mixed Numbers
Mixed numbers like 2 2/3 can confuse beginners, but the calculator handles them effortlessly.
How it works internally:
- 1. Converts mixed numbers to improper fractions
- 2. Performs the math
- 3. Converts back to a mixed number if needed
- 4. Simplifies the final output
You do not need to manually convert anything — the tool does all the heavy lifting.
Learn Fraction Basics
Understanding how fractions work helps users interpret results better. This section covers the fundamental concepts.
What Is a Fraction?
A fraction represents a division of two numbers:
- • Numerator (top): Parts you have
- • Denominator (bottom): Total equal parts
Example: 3/8 = 3 parts out of 8 equal parts.
Types of Fractions
1. Proper Fractions
The numerator is smaller than the denominator.
Example: 3/7
2. Improper Fractions
The numerator is equal to or larger than the denominator.
Example: 9/5
3. Mixed Numbers
A combination of a whole number and a fractional part.
Example: 2 1/4
4. Equivalent Fractions
Fractions that represent the same value.
Example: 1/2 = 2/4 = 4/8
How Fraction Operations Work
Adding Fractions
- 1. Convert to a common denominator
- 2. Add numerators
- 3. Simplify the result
Example: 1/3 + 1/6 → LCD is 6 → 2/6 + 1/6 = 3/6 = 1/2
Subtracting Fractions
Use the same method as addition, but subtract numerators.
Multiplying Fractions
Multiply numerators and denominators straight across:
(a/b) × (c/d) = ac/bd
Dividing Fractions
Multiply by the reciprocal of the second fraction:
(a/b) ÷ (c/d) = a/b × d/c
Why Simplification Matters
Simplification makes results easier to interpret and compare.
For example: 15/35 = 3/7 after dividing top and bottom by 5.
The calculator automatically simplifies all results for clearer understanding.
Common Mistakes With Fractions
1. Forgetting Common Denominators
Problem: Users often add denominators directly — this is incorrect.
Solution: The calculator always finds the correct Least Common Denominator (LCD).
2. Incorrect Conversion of Mixed Numbers
Problem: Manual conversion from mixed to improper fractions can introduce mistakes.
Solution: The tool converts them systematically and reliably.
3. Simplification Errors
Problem: Human simplification often misses key factors.
Solution: The calculator ensures reduction to the lowest terms every time.
4. Decimal Conversion Confusion
Problem: Many users struggle to convert decimals like 0.375.
Solution: The calculator provides the accurate fraction: 0.375 = 3/8.
Example Scenarios
Below are real-world examples showing how the calculator helps in different situations.
1. Everyday Use — Cooking
Problem:
A recipe requires 1/3 cup of sugar, but you want to add 2/5 cup more.
Calculation:
1/3 + 2/5 → LCD = 15 → 5/15 + 6/15 = 11/15 ≈ 0.73
You need a total of 11/15 cup of sugar.
2. Homework Example — Fraction Multiplication
Problem:
Multiply 3/4 × 2/3
Steps:
- • Multiply numerators: 3 × 2 = 6
- • Multiply denominators: 4 × 3 = 12
- • Simplify: 6/12 = 1/2
3/4 × 2/3 = 1/2
3. Decimal to Fraction Conversion
Problem:
Convert 0.2 to a fraction
Steps:
- • Write 0.2 as 2/10
- • Find GCD of 2 and 10 (which is 2)
- • Divide numerator and denominator by 2
- • Result: 2/10 = 1/5
0.2 = 1/5
The calculator performs this instantly.
Common Decimal → Fraction Conversions
| Decimal | Fraction | Simplified |
|---|---|---|
| 0.25 | 25/100 | 1/4 |
| 0.5 | 50/100 | 1/2 |
| 0.75 | 75/100 | 3/4 |
| 0.2 | 2/10 | 1/5 |
| 0.125 | 125/1000 | 1/8 |
Conclusion
The Fraction Calculator is a powerful, easy-to-use tool designed for global users who need fast, accurate, and educational fraction calculations. From everyday measurements to academic assignments, this tool simplifies complex math and builds understanding through step-by-step solutions. With full support for mixed numbers, decimals, simplification, and conversions, it stands as one of the most complete and reliable fraction calculation tools available.
