Adding and Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators
Step 1: Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD)
• Look at the denominators (the bottom numbers of the fractions).
• Find the smallest number that both denominators can divide into evenly.
Step 2: Make the Denominators the Same
• Change each fraction so that the denominator becomes the LCD.
• Multiply both the numerator (top number) and denominator (bottom number) by
the same number to create equivalent fractions.
Step 3: Add or Subtract the Fractions
• Once the denominators are the same, add or subtract only the numerators.
• Keep the denominator the same.
Step 4: Simplify the Answer
• If needed, simplify the fraction by dividing both the numerator and denominator
by the greatest common factor (GCF).
• If the answer is an improper fraction (numerator is bigger than the denominator),
change it into a mixed number.
Multiplying Fractions by a Whole Number
Step 1: Write the Whole Number as a Fraction
• Convert the whole number into a fraction by writing it over 1.
Step 2: Multiply
• Multiply the numerators (top numbers) together.
• Multiply the denominators (bottom numbers) together.
Step 3: Simplify
• If needed, simplify the fraction or convert it into a mixed number.
Dividing Fractions by a Whole Number
Step 1: Write the Whole Number as a Fraction
• Convert the whole number into a fraction by writing it over 1.
Step 2: Flip and Multiply
• Take the reciprocal (flip) of the whole number fraction.
• Multiply the fractions.
Step 3: Simplify
• If needed, simplify the fraction or convert it into a mixed number.