Fraction Addition and Subtraction Explorer

Practice adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators, mixed numbers, and common denominator strategies.

Watch these lessons to review adding and subtracting mixed numbers with unlike denominators and working with positive and negative mixed numbers.

Choose addition, subtraction, or mixed review to generate fraction problems.

Use the fraction strips to compare the original fractions and show a common denominator view.

Enter an answer to check your work, or reveal the solution steps when you are ready to review the process.

Fractions need a common denominator before the numerators can be added or subtracted.

Equivalent fractions may look different, but they represent the same amount.

After adding or subtracting, the answer may need to be simplified or written as a mixed number.

Fraction: A number that represents part of a whole or part of a group.

Numerator: The top number of a fraction that tells how many parts are being counted.

Denominator: The bottom number of a fraction that tells how many equal parts make one whole.

Common Denominator: A shared denominator used to add or subtract fractions.

LCD: The least common denominator, or smallest common multiple of two denominators.

Equivalent Fractions: Fractions that represent the same value even though they use different numbers.

Unlike Denominators: Fractions that have different denominators.

Mixed Number: A number written with a whole number and a fraction.

Improper Fraction: A fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.

Simplify: To write a fraction in an equivalent form using smaller numbers.

To add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators, first rewrite them using a common denominator.

\(\frac{a}{b}+\frac{c}{d}=\frac{ad}{bd}+\frac{bc}{bd}\)

Once the denominators are the same, add or subtract the numerators and keep the denominator.

\(\frac{a}{c}+\frac{b}{c}=\frac{a+b}{c}\)

Always simplify the final answer when possible.

Found this resource helpful? Share it with another teacher or save the link for later.

Browse more interactive tools for probability, statistics, algebra, geometry, ratios, and number systems.