Fractions Calculator

This Fractions Calculator performs arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with fractions. It supports proper fractions, improper fractions, and mixed numbers. The calculator displays the result in both fractional and decimal form.

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Understanding Fraction Operations

What are Fractions?

A fraction represents a part of a whole, expressed as one number (numerator) divided by another (denominator). Fractions are essential in mathematics and everyday calculations, from cooking to construction.

Basic Operations

Addition and Subtraction

Find a common denominator
Convert fractions to equivalent forms
Add or subtract numerators
Keep the common denominator
Simplify the result if possible

Multiplication

Multiply numerators together
Multiply denominators together
Simplify the result
Can cross-cancel before multiplying

Division

Keep first fraction
Multiply by reciprocal of second fraction
Multiply numerators and denominators
Simplify the result

Types of Fractions

Proper Fractions

Numerator is less than denominator
Value is less than 1
Example: 3/4, 2/5

Improper Fractions

Numerator is greater than denominator
Value is greater than 1
Can be converted to mixed numbers

Mixed Numbers

Whole number plus proper fraction
Can be converted to improper fractions
Often used in measurements

Common Applications

Cooking and Recipes

Measuring ingredients
Scaling recipes
Converting between units

Construction and DIY

Measurements and cuts
Material calculations
Scale drawings

Financial Calculations

Percentages
Interest rates
Proportional distributions

Tips for Working with Fractions

Always simplify your final answer
Check if cross-cancellation is possible before multiplying
Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions for operations
Use common denominators for addition and subtraction

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Adding/subtracting without common denominators
Multiplying denominators when adding
Forgetting to simplify final answers
Incorrect conversion of mixed numbers

Helpful Conversions

1/2 = 0.5 = 50%
1/4 = 0.25 = 25%
3/4 = 0.75 = 75%
1/3 ≈ 0.333 ≈ 33.3%