Fraction Calculator
Perform arithmetic on fractions and mixed numbers with full step-by-step simplification. Handles proper, improper and mixed-number fractions.
How to use the Fraction Calculator
- Enter your inputs into the Fraction Calculator above.
- Results update instantly as you type — no submit button needed.
- Adjust any value to see how the result changes in real time.
The fraction operations
Add/sub: a/b ± c/d = (ad ± bc) / bd · · · Multiply: a/b × c/d = (ac) / (bd) · · · Divide: a/b ÷ c/d = (ad) / (bc)
For addition and subtraction, find a common denominator. Multiplication multiplies tops and bottoms directly. Division is multiplication by the reciprocal. Simplify the result by dividing by the greatest common factor.
Worked example
2/3 + 1/4 = (2×4 + 1×3) / (3×4) = 11/12. 5/8 ÷ 3/4 = 5/8 × 4/3 = 20/24 = 5/6 after simplifying. 1¾ × 2½ = 7/4 × 5/2 = 35/8 = 4⅜.
Frequently asked questions
What is a mixed number?
A whole number with a fraction (like 2¾). Convert to improper by: whole × denominator + numerator, over denominator. So 2¾ = (2×4+3)/4 = 11/4.
How do I simplify a fraction?
Divide both numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor. 18/24: GCF is 6, so 18/24 = 3/4. The calculator simplifies automatically.
How is this different from decimal calculation?
Fractions preserve exact values; decimals introduce rounding for non-terminating expansions (1/3 = 0.333...). For exact answers in algebra and geometry, keep fractions.