Why Use This Tool?
Fraction arithmetic trips people up because the rules aren't intuitive — different denominators, cross multiplication, and simplifying at the end. This calculator does all four operations with automatic simplification, and shows the mixed-number form alongside the result.
The two converters at the bottom handle the boundary cases: fraction to decimal for calculators and spreadsheets, and decimal back to the nearest simple fraction for recipes and measurements.
How It Works
- Enter both fractions' numerators and denominators.
- Pick the operation — the result is simplified automatically.
- Or use the converters to switch between fractions and decimals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add fractions with different denominators?
Cross-multiply: a/b + c/d becomes (a×d + c×b) / (b×d), then simplify. The calculator does this and reduces the result to lowest terms automatically.
How do I convert a decimal to a fraction?
Enter the decimal — the tool finds the closest fraction with a denominator up to 10,000. 0.375 becomes exactly 3/8; repeating decimals get the nearest match.
What is a mixed number?
A whole number plus a proper fraction, like 1 1/2 for 3/2. Improper results are shown in both forms so you can use whichever your context needs.
Tips & Things to Watch
- Division by a zero fraction (0/x) is undefined — the tool blocks it.
- Negative fractions are supported with the minus sign on the numerator.
- Simplified results make comparing fractions much easier.