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General

Fraction Calculator

Add, subtract, multiply or divide two fractions and get the simplified result with worked steps.

Fraction Calculator

Result

Enter both fractions.

What this calculator does

It performs the four basic operations on two fractions, accepts mixed numbers (whole + numerator + denominator), and returns the answer in simplest form, as a mixed number and as a decimal. The Steps panel shows the common denominator, the intermediate fraction and the GCD used to simplify, so you can use the tool as a homework check rather than just an answer.

How to use it

Type the two fractions into the form. Leave the whole-number field blank for ordinary fractions, or fill it in for mixed numbers like 2 1/3. Pick an operation and the answer updates instantly. Negative numerators are allowed; we keep the sign on the numerator and the denominator positive.

How fractions are combined

Addition: a/b + c/d = (a·d + c·b) / (b·d). Subtraction: a/b − c/d = (a·d − c·b) / (b·d). Multiplication: a/b × c/d = (a·c) / (b·d). Division: a/b ÷ c/d = (a·d) / (b·c). The result is then divided by the greatest common divisor of numerator and denominator to put it in simplest form.

Common fraction equivalents

Fraction Decimal Percent
1/20.550%
1/30.333…33.33%
2/30.666…66.67%
1/40.2525%
3/40.7575%
1/50.220%
1/80.12512.5%
3/80.37537.5%
5/80.62562.5%
7/80.87587.5%

Frequently asked questions

Can I enter mixed numbers?
Yes. The whole-number field is for the integer part of a mixed number. 2 1/3 becomes whole = 2, numerator = 1, denominator = 3. The calculator converts to an improper fraction internally and converts back at the end.
How are negatives handled?
Type the minus sign in either the whole or the numerator field. The calculator collapses the sign to a single negative on the numerator before computing, so −2 1/3 and 2 −1/3 give the same result if that is what you intended.
Why does the result use the GCD?
The greatest common divisor of the numerator and denominator is the largest integer that divides both. Dividing by the GCD reduces a fraction to its simplest form in one step, which is what you usually want for a final answer.
What if I divide by zero?
Division by zero is undefined. The calculator detects a zero second fraction and shows an error rather than returning infinity or NaN.
Does it work with very large numbers?
JavaScript numbers are accurate up to 2^53, which is enough for everyday use. For numerators and denominators in the millions you should still be safe; in the billions, expect rounding.
Why show the steps?
Because most people use this tool to check homework. Seeing the common denominator, the unsimplified intermediate and the GCD makes it obvious where a hand calculation went wrong.