Fraction Calculator

The Fraction Calculator performs arithmetic operations with fractions — addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It also simplifies fractions to their lowest terms and converts between fractions, decimals, and mixed numbers.

How the Formula Works

Addition: a/b + c/d = (ad + bc) / bd. Subtraction: a/b − c/d = (ad − bc) / bd. Multiplication: a/b × c/d = ac / bd. Division: a/b ÷ c/d = ad / bc.

  • Finding LCD (Least Common Denominator): LCM of the two denominators
  • Simplifying: Divide both numerator and denominator by their GCD
  • Mixed to improper: whole × denominator + numerator, over denominator
  • Improper to mixed: Divide numerator by denominator; remainder is new numerator

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter the first fraction (numerator and denominator)
  2. Select the operation (+, −, ×, ÷)
  3. Enter the second fraction
  4. View the result in simplified form, as a decimal, and as a mixed number

Tips & Best Practices

  • To divide fractions, flip the second fraction and multiply ('keep, change, flip')
  • Always simplify your answer by dividing by the GCD of the numerator and denominator
  • When adding fractions with different denominators, find the LCD first
  • Any whole number can be written as a fraction with 1 as the denominator (e.g., 5 = 5/1)

Important Limitations

  • Some fractions produce repeating decimals (1/3 = 0.333...) that cannot be expressed exactly in decimal form
  • Very large numerators or denominators may lose precision in decimal conversion
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