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Fraction calculator

Add, subtract, multiply and divide fractions, with the result already simplified.

Simplified result
5/6
As decimal0.8333

How the calculation works

Each operation with fractions has its own rule. The denominator (bottom) says how many parts the whole was split into; the numerator (top), how many you have.

Addition and subtraction

You can only add fractions with the same denominator. When they differ, match them via the LCM (or cross-multiply), then add the numerators:

1/2 + 1/3 = 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6

Multiplication

The simplest: numerator times numerator, denominator times denominator. No matching needed.

2/3 × 4/5 = 8/15

Division

Dividing fractions becomes multiplying by the reciprocal (flip the second and multiply):

2/3 ÷ 4/5 = 2/3 × 5/4 = 10/12 = 5/6

Simplifying

Finally, divide numerator and denominator by their GCD. E.g. 10/12 has GCD 2 → 5/6.

Examples

  • 3/4 + 1/6: LCM 12 → 9/12 + 2/12 = 11/12.
  • 5/6 ÷ 2/3 = 5/6 × 3/2 = 15/12 = 5/4.

Frequently asked questions

How to simplify a fraction?

Divide numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). Repeat until the only common divisor is 1.

Why do I need a common denominator to add?

Because you can only add parts of the same size. 1/2 and 1/3 are different-sized slices; a common denominator puts them in the same unit.

How to convert a fraction to a decimal?

Divide the numerator by the denominator. 3/4 = 3 ÷ 4 = 0.75. We have a dedicated calculator for this.

What is an improper fraction?

One whose numerator exceeds the denominator (e.g. 5/4). It is greater than 1 and can become a mixed number: 5/4 = 1 1/4.

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Updated on June 17, 2026 · by Rafael Rossi · Methodology & sources