Fraction calculator guide

How to use the Fraction Calculator

The Fraction Calculator helps with fraction arithmetic in a way that is easy to check: enter whole numbers, numerators, and denominators, choose an operation, then review the simplified answer, improper fraction, decimal value, and working steps.

Open the fraction calculator

Quick start

  1. Enter the first fraction. Use Whole only when the number is mixed, such as 2 1/4.
  2. Enter the numerator and denominator for the second fraction.
  3. Choose add, subtract, multiply, or divide.
  4. Press Calculate fraction to see the simplified answer.
  5. Read the steps, copy the answer, try an example, or swap the two fractions.

How to enter fractions

Simple fraction: leave Whole blank and enter the numerator and denominator, such as 1 and 2 for 1/2.

Mixed number: enter the whole number plus the fraction part, such as 2, 1, and 4 for 2 1/4.

Improper fraction: enter a numerator larger than the denominator, such as 9 and 4 for 9/4.

Negative fraction: use a negative whole number or numerator when the value should be below zero.

What the answer shows

The main answer is shown as a mixed number when that is easier to read. The result box also includes the improper fraction and a decimal value, so you can compare the answer with homework, recipes, measurements, or a calculator that expects decimals.

The steps section shows the common denominator method for addition and subtraction, direct multiplication for multiplying fractions, and reciprocal multiplication when dividing fractions.

Operation examples

1/2 + 1/3 Finds a common denominator and simplifies to 5/6.
2 1/4 - 3/8 Converts the mixed number, subtracts, and returns 1 7/8.
3/4 x 2/5 Multiplies numerators and denominators, then simplifies.
5/6 / 2/3 Flips the second fraction, multiplies, and simplifies.

Examples from the fraction calculator

Add unlike denominators 1/2 + 1/3

5/6

Subtract a mixed number 2 1/4 - 3/8

1 7/8

Multiply fractions 3/4 x 2/5

3/10

Common mistakes to check

A denominator cannot be zero. If the calculator shows an input error, check that both denominators are filled in with whole numbers and that the denominator is not 0.

For mixed numbers, keep the whole number separate from the fraction part. For example, 2 1/4 should be entered as Whole 2, Numerator 1, Denominator 4.

History, privacy, and copying

Recent fraction answers stay visible in the page while you work. This is useful when comparing a few homework problems or recipe measurements. The history is kept only in the current browser tab and is not sent to a server.

Copy answer copies the current mixed-number answer to your clipboard so you can paste it into notes, homework, a message, or another document.