Fraction Calculator

What is fraction calculator?

A fraction shows a part of a whole. Working with fractions needs a common denominator for addition and subtraction, and simple rules for multiplication and division.

This calculator does the steps and simplifies the answer by dividing the top and bottom by their greatest common divisor.

How to use the fraction calculator

1. Enter the first fraction.
2. Choose an operation.
3. Enter the second fraction and read the result.

How the fraction calculator works

To add or subtract, the tool finds n1 times d2 plus or minus n2 times d1 over d1 times d2. To multiply, it multiplies tops and bottoms. To divide, it multiplies by the reciprocal. The result is then simplified.

Worked example

Common uses of the fraction calculator

• Homework and exam practice.
• Recipes and cooking.
• Woodwork and measuring.
• Checking worked solutions.
• Teaching fractions.

Tips and common mistakes

A denominator can never be zero.

Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions before you enter them.

Background: what to know before you rely on it

Fractions are one of the oldest forms of number, used in ancient Egypt and Babylon. They remain important because many real measurements are naturally fractional, such as inches, cups and shares. Most mistakes come from adding the denominators, which is not allowed, or from forgetting to simplify. A good habit is to estimate first: half plus a third should be a bit less than one, so an answer of 2 over 5 is clearly wrong. The decimal value is a quick check.

Private, free and fast

This tool runs entirely in your browser. What you type or choose is not uploaded to a server and is not saved after you close the page, which keeps it fast and private. It is free to use as often as you like. See more in all calculators, or browse the full list of tools.

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Results are for information and education. For legal, financial, medical or security decisions, check with a qualified professional. Financial results are estimates and exclude fees and taxes unless the tool says otherwise.