Fraction Calculator
Add, subtract, multiply or divide two fractions — or mixed numbers — and see the full working, right down to the simplified answer.
Leave the small left box blank for a simple fraction, or use it for mixed numbers like 2½.
Step by step
How fraction arithmetic works
Every fraction operation comes down to two ideas: a common denominator for adding and subtracting, and simplifying at the end by dividing out the greatest common divisor. Multiplying is the friendly one — just multiply across the top and across the bottom. Dividing is the same, after you flip the second fraction (its reciprocal). Master those and fractions stop being scary.
- Add / subtract: put both over the same denominator, combine the numerators, simplify.
- Multiply: numerator × numerator over denominator × denominator, then simplify.
- Divide: keep the first, flip the second, multiply — "keep, change, flip".
- Mixed numbers: convert to an improper fraction first (2 1/3 → 7/3), then proceed.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add fractions with different denominators?
Rewrite both over a common denominator, add the numerators, then simplify. 1/3 + 1/4 → 4/12 + 3/12 = 7/12.
How do I multiply and divide fractions?
Multiply across (2/3 × 4/5 = 8/15). To divide, flip the second and multiply (2/3 ÷ 4/5 = 2/3 × 5/4 = 5/6).
How do I simplify a fraction?
Divide top and bottom by their greatest common divisor. 8/12 ÷ 4/4 = 2/3.
How do I turn an improper fraction into a mixed number?
Divide numerator by denominator: 7/3 = 2 remainder 1 = 2 1/3.
Want to get faster without a calculator? Try the daily puzzle, the percentage calculator, or print a practice worksheet.