When adding fractions such as 2/4 and 1/4, all you have to do is add the numerators. (YOU NEVER ADD THE DENOMINATORS!) The denominators have to be the same when you add fractions. Since in this case, they are the same. just add the numerators. So 2/4+1/4=3/4.

However, many times, you will have to solve an addition problem such as 2/3+1/2. The denominators are not the same, so you can't add them just yet. Before you add, you have to find the Least Common Denominator or LCD. To find the LCD, all you have to do is find the LCM of the denominators.

Subtracting Fractions

To make this easy, let's just say that you use the same thought process as with adding fractions. You just look at the denominators, and if they are the same, then you procede to subtract the first numerator by the second numerator. i.e: 6/5 - 4/5 = 2/5.

Mixed Numbers

Whole numbers that are mixed with fractions. If you have one whole and 3/4 remaining, the resulting fraction is 1 3/4. It is read one and three fourths. If you have a fraction like 8/5, you divide the numerator by the denominator. Five goes into eight once with 3/5 left over. Your resulting fraction is 1 3/5 and is read one and three fifths.

Adding Mixed Numbers

When you are adding fractions and they have unlike denominators, look at the denominators and turn it into a mixed fraction with like denominators. Add the fractions, and then the whole numbers.

• Example: 4 1/2 + 2 1/3= 4 3/6 + 2 2/6
• Solution: First, add the fractions which equal 5/6, then the whole numbers which equal 6. Your resulting fraction is 6 5/6.

When you compute the mixed number, you might get an improper fraction instead of a pure mixed number. i.e: 5 7/5. When this happens, you convert the improper fraction to a mixed number. i.e: 5+1 2/5. Then add the whole numbers and you receive your final answer. i.e: 6 2/5.

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