How do you add or subtract dissimilar fractions?

Answer 1

You first convert them to similar fractions, i.e., to fractions that have the same denominator.* Step one: find a common denominator.

* Step two: convert both fractions to equivalent fractions that have that denominator.

Answer 2

Find a common denominator, then convert the fractions in terms of the common denominator, then add or subtract the numerators and finally reduce the resultant fraction.