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Fraction Calculator with Steps

Add, subtract, multiply or divide fractions with full steps.

Enter two fractions and choose an operation to add, subtract, multiply, or divide them, with a full step-by-step breakdown of the math.

Result

5/6

= 0.833 as a decimal

Steps

    How to Use This Tool

    1. Enter the numerator and denominator of the first fraction.
    2. Choose an operation: add, subtract, multiply, or divide.
    3. Enter the numerator and denominator of the second fraction.
    4. The simplified result, decimal equivalent, and full steps appear instantly.

    How It Works

    Addition and subtraction convert both fractions to a common denominator (the least common multiple of the two denominators), then combine the numerators. Multiplication multiplies numerators and denominators directly. Division multiplies the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second. Every result is simplified using the greatest common divisor.

    Example

    1/2 + 1/3: the least common denominator of 2 and 3 is 6.

    1/2 = 3/6, and 1/3 = 2/6. Adding numerators: 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6.

    Benefits

    • Shows full working, not just a final answer.
    • Handles negative numbers and improper fractions correctly.
    • Automatically simplifies every result.

    Important Notes

    This tool is meant to check your own fraction work or speed up homework — it is a good idea to also understand the steps yourself, since fraction arithmetic is a building block for more advanced math.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I use negative numbers?

    Yes. Enter a minus sign before the numerator (or denominator) to use a negative fraction, such as -1/2. The calculator normalizes the sign automatically in the result.

    Can I enter an improper fraction, like 7/2?

    Yes. The calculator accepts improper fractions (where the numerator is larger than the denominator) as both input and output, and also shows the equivalent mixed number.

    What happens if I try to divide by zero?

    The calculator will show a clear error instead of an incorrect result if you try to divide by a fraction equal to zero, or if you enter a denominator of zero, since both are undefined in math.

    How is the fraction simplified?

    The calculator finds the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator using the Euclidean algorithm, then divides both by it to reduce the fraction to lowest terms.

    Does it show the steps for every operation?

    Yes. Addition and subtraction show how a common denominator is found, multiplication and division show the direct multiplication step, and any necessary simplification is shown as a final step.