Fraction Addition Calculator

Understanding Fraction Addition

Fractions are used to represent parts of a whole. They consist of two numbers: the numerator (top) and the denominator (bottom). The denominator tells you how many parts the whole is divided into, and the numerator tells you how many of these parts you have.

To add fractions, they must have the same denominator. If they do, you simply add the numerators and keep the denominator the same. For example, to add \( \frac15 \) and \( \frac25 \), you add the numerators (1 + 2 = 3) and keep the denominator 5, resulting in \( \frac35 \).

If fractions have different denominators, you need to find a common denominator. The least common denominator (LCD) is often easiest to use. Once you have a common denominator, convert each fraction to have this denominator, and then add the numerators. For example, to add \( \frac13 \) and \( \frac14 \), the LCD is 12. Convert \( \frac13 \) to \( \frac412 \) and \( \frac14 \) to \( \frac312 \). Then add: \( \frac412 + \frac312 = \frac712 \).

Mixed numbers combine a whole number and a fraction (e.g., \( 1 \frac12 \)). To add mixed numbers, you can either convert them to improper fractions first and then add, or add the whole numbers and fractions separately and then combine.

For further learning and practice, explore resources like:

• Math is Fun - Adding Fractions
• Khan Academy - Fraction Arithmetic
• BBC Bitesize - Adding Fractions