Add unlike denominators
1/2 + 1/35/6
Fraction Calculator
Use this free fraction calculator to add, subtract, multiply, or divide two fractions, simplify and convert one value, or compare two exact values. See LCD work, mixed and improper forms, decimals, percentages, and copy-ready steps.
Mixed numbersSimplified answersDecimal conversionExact comparisonLCD steps
Calculated fraction5/6
1/2 + 1/3
- Improper fraction
- 5/6
- Decimal
- 0.8333333333
- Percent
- 83.3333333333%
- Least common denominator
- 6
Steps
- Find the least common denominator of 2 and 3: 6.
- Rewrite the fractions: 1/2 becomes 3/6, and 1/3 becomes 2/6.
- Add the numerators: 3 + 2 = 5.
- Simplify 5/6 to 5/6.
Examples for this mode
Recent answers
Recent fraction answers will appear here.
Values and recent answers stay in this browser tab. They are not sent to a server.
How to use the Fraction Calculator
- Choose Arithmetic, Simplify / convert, or Compare based on the result you need.
- In Arithmetic, enter two fractions or mixed numbers and choose add, subtract, multiply, or divide.
- In Simplify / convert, type a value such as 18/24, 2 1/4, 7, or 0.125.
- In Compare, enter two exact values and check the cross-products and first-minus-second result.
- Run the mode, then check the mixed, improper, decimal, percentage, LCD, or comparison steps before copying.
What people use it for
Add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators and see the least common denominator step.
Multiply fractions directly or divide by using the reciprocal of the second fraction.
Simplify a fraction or convert a mixed number, whole number, or terminating decimal into exact fraction form.
Compare two fractions, mixed numbers, whole numbers, or decimals with exact cross-multiplication steps.
Read the same answer as a mixed number, improper fraction, decimal, percentage, or equivalent fraction.
Quick examples
Subtract a mixed number
2 1/4 - 3/81 7/8
Multiply fractions
3/4 x 2/53/10
Divide fractions
5/6 / 2/31 1/4
Simplify a fraction
18/243/4
Convert a decimal
0.1251/8
Compare fractions
2/3 vs 3/52/3 > 3/5
Need the guide or a nearby tool?
Need a slower walkthrough, a related calculator, or the full library? These links keep you close to the task you started.
- How to use the Fraction CalculatorSee slower examples, input meanings, formula notes, result limits, and mistakes to avoid.
- CalculatorsBrowse related calculators and utilities in the same category.
- Percentage And Ratio Calculator HubCompare this with the nearby tools and checks in the same job path.
- Calculator and utility guidesFind more guides that use real tool inputs and example numbers.
- All free toolsSearch every live tool, converter, calculator, AI helper, and browser utility.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about arithmetic, simplifying, mixed numbers, decimal conversion, comparison, and privacy.
What can I use the Fraction Calculator for?
Use Arithmetic to add, subtract, multiply, or divide two fractions. Use Simplify / convert for one fraction, mixed number, whole number, or terminating decimal. Use Compare to check which of two exact values is greater or whether they are equal.
How do I enter a mixed number?
In Arithmetic, put the whole number in the Whole box and the fraction part in the numerator and denominator boxes. In Simplify / convert or Compare, type one space between the whole number and fraction, such as 2 1/4.
What do the main Fraction Calculator inputs mean?
The main inputs are the numbers, operation, mode, or known values the calculator needs. Keep units consistent, enter percentages the way the page label shows, and use the examples as a quick check before trusting the answer.
How should I read the Fraction Calculator answer?
Read the headline answer, then check the supporting lines and examples to understand how the calculator got there. If one input changes, rerun the tool and compare the new answer instead of guessing.
What should I double-check before trusting the Fraction Calculator?
Check units, signs, rounding, and the selected mode before copying the answer. If the number feels weird, rerun one of the examples first, then put your own values back in slowly.
Why do addition and subtraction use the least common denominator?
Fractions can only be added or subtracted directly when the parts are the same size. The calculator finds the least common denominator, rewrites both fractions with that denominator, and then combines the numerators.
Does the calculator simplify fractions automatically?
Yes. Arithmetic answers are reduced to lowest terms. Simplify / convert also shows the mixed or improper fraction, decimal, percentage, and several equivalent fractions.
Can I convert a decimal to a fraction?
Yes. Choose Simplify / convert and enter a terminating decimal such as 0.125. The calculator writes it over a power of ten and reduces it to 1/8. Use no more than nine decimal places.
How does the calculator compare two fractions?
Compare mode converts each input to an exact fraction and cross-multiplies. For 2/3 and 3/5, it compares 2 x 5 with 3 x 3, so 10 is greater than 9 and 2/3 is greater.
How does dividing fractions work?
Dividing by a fraction uses the reciprocal of the second fraction. The calculator flips the second fraction, multiplies, and then simplifies the answer.
What do the decimal and percent answers mean?
They are the same exact fraction written in other forms. For example, 1/8 is 0.125 and 12.5%. Keep the fraction form when the task asks for an exact fraction.
Can I enter a repeating decimal?
Not as a repeating pattern. Enter a terminating decimal with up to nine places, or enter the exact fraction instead. For example, use 1/3 rather than a rounded 0.333333333.
Can a denominator be zero?
No. A denominator cannot be zero, and the calculator will show an error if you try to calculate with one.
When should I use the LCM or GCF calculators?
Use the LCM Calculator when you only need the least common multiple or denominator. Use the GCF Calculator when you only need the largest shared factor. This page uses both ideas inside its fraction steps.
Is my fraction history private?
Yes. Recent fraction calculations stay only in the current browser tab while you use the page. They are not sent to a server.