How to Add and Simplify Fractions

Verify the fractions have the same denominator., Add the numerators., Place the numerators’ sum over the denominator.

3 Steps 1 min read Easy

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Verify the fractions have the same denominator.

    A denominator is the number below the fraction bar.If the fractions do not have the same denominator, you cannot use this method.

    For example, if you are calculating 24+14{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}}, you can note that both fractions have the same denominator:
    4.
  2. Step 2: Add the numerators.

    A numerator is the number above the fraction bar.

    Add numerators the same way you would add integers.For example, the numerators of 24{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}} and 14{\displaystyle {\frac {1}{4}}} are 2 and 1, so you would calculate 2+1=3{\displaystyle 2+1=3}.

    So, 3 is the numerator of your sum. , Since both fractions you are adding have the same denominator, the denominator of their sum will also be the same.For example, the sum of 24+14{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}} will have a denominator of 4: 24+14=34{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}={\frac {3}{4}}}.
  3. Step 3: Place the numerators’ sum over the denominator.

Detailed Guide

A denominator is the number below the fraction bar.If the fractions do not have the same denominator, you cannot use this method.

For example, if you are calculating 24+14{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}}, you can note that both fractions have the same denominator:
4.

A numerator is the number above the fraction bar.

Add numerators the same way you would add integers.For example, the numerators of 24{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}} and 14{\displaystyle {\frac {1}{4}}} are 2 and 1, so you would calculate 2+1=3{\displaystyle 2+1=3}.

So, 3 is the numerator of your sum. , Since both fractions you are adding have the same denominator, the denominator of their sum will also be the same.For example, the sum of 24+14{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}} will have a denominator of 4: 24+14=34{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}={\frac {3}{4}}}.

About the Author

B

Brittany Vasquez

Creates helpful guides on home improvement to inspire and educate readers.

27 articles
View all articles

Rate This Guide

--
Loading...
5
0
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: