Fraction Calculator
One Tool for All Four Operations
This calculator adds, subtracts, multiplies, and divides fractions, returning each result already simplified. Students stuck on homework, parents helping with worksheets, and professionals splitting measurements use the Basic and Advanced modes for quick, reliable answers.
How Each Operation Works
Addition and subtraction need common denominators first. For 1/4 + 1/6, the lowest common denominator is 12, so the sum becomes 3/12 + 2/12, which collects to 5/12.
Multiplication is faster: multiply straight across, so 2/3 x 3/4 gives 6/12, which reduces to 1/2. Division flips the second fraction and multiplies, meaning 1/2 divided by 1/4 equals 2.
A couple of habits keep answers clean. Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions first, so 2 and 1/2 becomes 5/2 before any operation. Keep negative signs attached to the numerator, since minus 3/8 added to 1/4 works the same as any other pair of unlike denominators. After a result such as 5/12, a quick decimal check, roughly 0.417, confirms the order of magnitude before you commit the answer on paper.
Using Basic and Advanced Modes
Pick Basic or Advanced, enter each fraction, choose the operator, and press Calculate. Watch signs when subtracting, since 3/4 – 1/6 lands on 7/12 after rewriting over 12. Denominators of different sizes are the usual stumbling block, and the tool handles that rewrite for you, including mixed numbers in Advanced mode.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 1/4 plus 1/6?
Rewrite both fractions over the common denominator 12: 1/4 becomes 3/12 and 1/6 becomes 2/12. Adding the numerators then gives 5/12, which sits already in lowest terms.
How does multiplying 2/3 by 3/4 work?
Multiply the numerators together and the denominators together: 2 x 3 gives 6, and 3 x 4 gives 12. The product 6/12 then reduces to 1/2.
What is 3/4 minus 1/6?
Convert both fractions to twelfths, which gives 9/12 and 2/12. Subtracting the numerators then leaves 7/12, and since those two parts share no common factor, it is the final answer.
How do I divide one fraction by another?
Flip the second fraction and multiply instead. For 1/2 divided by 1/4, the problem becomes 1/2 x 4/1, and multiplying across gives 4/2, which simplifies to exactly 2.
Will the answer always be simplified?
Yes. A product like 6/12 is shown as 1/2 because the calculator divides out common factors. Results that are already minimal, such as 5/12 from 1/4 plus 1/6, appear exactly in that form.