Pre-Algebra

How to solve

Fractions can only be added when they name pieces of the same size. A common denominator makes the units match so you can combine the numerators; simplifying afterward removes shared factors without changing the value.

Steps

  1. Find a common denominator (the product of the denominators always works).
  2. Rewrite each fraction with that shared denominator.
  3. Add the numerators, keep the denominator, then simplify.

Example

Compute 1/4 + 1/6.

  1. Common denominator: 12.
  2. Rewrite: 3/12 + 2/12.
  3. Add numerators: 5/12 (already simplified).

Answer: 5/12

How to type answers

  • Enter a/b simplified, e.g. 5/6 or 2 if it reduces to an integer
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