Fraction Calculator ā€“ Solve, Simplify & Understand Fractions Easily

Fractions are a fundamental part of mathematics, but they often cause confusion for students and adults alike. This Fraction Calculator helps you add, subtract, multiply, divide, simplify, compare, and convert fractions with clarity and confidence.

Unlike basic calculators, this tool not only gives you the correct answer but also explains each step involved. Whether you are working with proper fractions, improper fractions, or mixed numbers, you can see the solution in fraction, decimal, and percentage form along with helpful visual representations.

Inputs

Tip: enable Mixed to enter a whole number
Tip: enable Mixed to enter a whole number

A + B

Summary

Simplified
5/6
Mixed form
56
Decimal
0.8333
Percent
83.3333%

Step-by-Step

1. Start
A1/2
B1/3
2. Find common denominator (LCM)
dA2
dB3
lcm6
3. Convert to equivalent fractions
Scale both fractions so they share the same denominator.
scaleA6 Ć· 2 = 3
scaleB6 Ć· 3 = 2
aEq1/2 Ɨ 3/3 = 3/6
bEq1/3 Ɨ 2/2 = 2/6
4. Add numerators
numerator3 + 2 = 5
result5/6
5. Simplify
simplified5/6

Visual Representation

Common Mistakes
Why you can't add denominators
1/2 + 1/3 is not 2/5. Use a common denominator (LCM of 2 and 3 is 6), then add numerators: 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6.
Why simplify matters
Simplifying makes answers easier to read and compare. Example: 24/36 reduces to 2/3.
Dividing by a fraction
Dividing by a fraction means multiply by its reciprocal: (2/3) Ć· (3/4) = (2/3) Ɨ (4/3).
Improper vs mixed numbers
5/4 is improper; as a mixed number it is 1 1/4. Both represent the same value.
Recurring decimals
0.(3) means 0.333ā€¦ which equals 1/3 exactly.
Comparing fractions quickly
Cross-multiply: compare a/b and c/d by comparing aĀ·d vs cĀ·b (works for positive denominators).
Quick Jump:āœØ FeaturesšŸŽÆ Quick vs AdvancedšŸ“š Learnā“ FAQs

What This Fraction Calculator Can Do

  • Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions
  • Automatically simplify fractions to lowest terms
  • Convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages
  • Work with mixed numbers and improper fractions
  • Compare two fractions and identify which is larger
  • Solve full fraction expressions using parentheses
  • Convert recurring decimals (such as 0.(3)) into exact fractions
  • Visualize fractions using bars, pies, and number lines
  • Show step-by-step explanations for better understanding

Quick Mode vs Advanced Mode

Quick Mode

Quick mode is designed for fast and simple calculations. Enter two fractions, choose an operation, and instantly see the simplified result, mixed number form, decimal value, percentage, and a visual representation.

This mode is ideal for everyday calculations and quick checks.

Advanced Mode

Advanced mode is built for deeper learning and complex problems. It allows you to solve multi-step fraction expressions, view detailed step-by-step logic including common denominators and simplification, explore equivalent fractions, convert recurring decimals, and find the best fractional approximation of a decimal value.

This mode is especially useful for students, teachers, and exam preparation.

Understanding Fractions

A fraction represents a part of a whole and is written in the form numerator over denominator.

The numerator shows how many parts are taken, while the denominator shows how many equal parts the whole is divided into.

Examples include one-half, three-fourths, and five-eighths.

Proper, Improper, and Mixed Fractions

A proper fraction has a numerator smaller than the denominator. An improper fraction has a numerator greater than or equal to the denominator. A mixed number combines a whole number with a fraction.

This calculator automatically converts between all these forms.

Why Simplifying Fractions Matters

Simplifying fractions reduces them to their lowest terms without changing their value. Simplified fractions are easier to understand, easier to compare, and preferred in exams and real-life calculations.

Common Fraction Mistakes

Many learners mistakenly add denominators directly or forget to simplify the final result. Another common error is dividing fractions without using the reciprocal.

This calculator highlights and explains these mistakes to help you learn the correct methods.

Real-Life Uses

Fractions are used in everyday life, including cooking, construction, measurements, budgeting, time calculations, and academics. Visualizing fractions makes them easier to understand and apply in real-world situations.

FAQ

How do you add fractions?ā–¼

To add fractions, both fractions must have a common denominator. Once the denominators match, add the numerators and simplify the result. This calculator automatically performs these steps and shows the working.

How do you simplify a fraction?ā–¼

A fraction is simplified by dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor. The calculator explains this process step by step.

How do you convert a decimal to a fraction?ā–¼

Terminating decimals are converted based on place value, while recurring decimals require special formulas. This calculator supports both methods.

What is a mixed number?ā–¼

A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction, such as two and one-third. This calculator converts mixed numbers automatically.

How do you compare two fractions?ā–¼

Fractions can be compared using common denominators, cross multiplication, decimal values, or visual models. This calculator shows which fraction is larger and explains why.

Use the Fraction Calculator above to solve problems instantly, understand fraction logic clearly, and avoid common mistakes. Whether you are studying, teaching, or reviewing math concepts, this tool is designed to make fractions simple and intuitive.