Fraction Calculator

Add, subtract, multiply and divide fractions and mixed numbers, with results automatically simplified.

Enter your details and press Calculate to see results.

Formula

a/b + c/d = (ad + cb) / bd

Example

1/2 + 3/8: common denominator is 8, giving 4/8 + 3/8 = 7/8 (0.875 as a decimal).

Entering mixed numbers

Type mixed numbers with a space between the whole part and the fraction, for example 2 1/4. Improper fractions like 9/4 are accepted too and will be simplified in the answer.

How the operations work

Addition and subtraction need a common denominator; multiplication multiplies straight across; division flips the second fraction and multiplies. Every answer is reduced to lowest terms using the greatest common divisor.

Frequently asked questions

Why do fractions need a common denominator?

Fractions express parts of equally-sized wholes. You can only add pieces directly when the pieces are the same size, so denominators must match before combining numerators.

What is an improper fraction?

An improper fraction has a numerator larger than its denominator, such as 9/4. It equals 2 1/4 as a mixed number.