Fraction Calculator
Add, subtract, multiply, or divide two fractions. Results are automatically simplified to lowest terms.
This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional financial, medical, legal, or engineering advice. See Terms of Service.
Can't find what you need?
Request a ToolHow to Use the Fraction Calculator
Enter two fractions and choose an operation. The calculator gives you the simplified result, decimal equivalent, and mixed number form instantly as you type.
- Enter the first fraction. Type the numerator and denominator in the first row of fields.
- Choose the operation. Select add, subtract, multiply, or divide from the dropdown.
- Enter the second fraction. Type the numerator and denominator in the second row.
- Read the result. The simplified fraction, decimal, mixed number, and unsimplified form all appear below. Use Copy or Share to save the result.
The calculator automatically simplifies results by dividing both numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor. Denominators of zero are not allowed.
About Fraction Arithmetic
Fractions represent parts of a whole. Adding and subtracting fractions requires a common denominator: multiply the denominators together (or find the LCD), adjust the numerators, then combine. Multiplying fractions is straightforward: multiply numerators together and denominators together. Dividing by a fraction means multiplying by its reciprocal (flip the second fraction).
After any operation, the result is simplified by dividing both parts by their GCD. If the result is an improper fraction (numerator larger than denominator), the mixed number representation shows the whole number and remainder.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you add fractions with different denominators?
Find a common denominator by multiplying the two denominators together. Adjust each numerator by multiplying it by the other fraction's denominator. Then add the numerators and simplify. For example, 1/3 + 1/4 = 4/12 + 3/12 = 7/12.
How do you divide fractions?
Multiply by the reciprocal of the second fraction. Flip the second fraction (swap numerator and denominator), then multiply across. For example, 3/4 divided by 1/2 = 3/4 x 2/1 = 6/4 = 3/2.
What is the difference between a proper and improper fraction?
A proper fraction has a numerator smaller than its denominator (like 3/4). An improper fraction has a numerator equal to or larger than its denominator (like 7/4). Improper fractions can be converted to mixed numbers (7/4 = 1 3/4).