How do you add fractions?

Answer 1

If the denominators are the same, add the numerators together and put that total over the same denominator. Reduce if possible. If the denominators are different...

1 Find the lowest common denominator, the bottom number (LCD)

2. Convert each fraction into an equivalent fraction whose denominator is the LCD

3. Add the numerator (the top number) of each fraction

4. Reduce the answer if possible

Example:

1/2 + 1/3

In this one 6 is the LCD, so you convert 1/2 to 3/6 and convert 1/3 to 2/6, then add the

numerator of each. You would then have 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6
There are two methods to add fractions.

1. add in fraction form :

Take Least common multiple of denominators of both fractions, divide LCM by each denominator and multiply that factor to each numerator. Simply add both result numerators and the final result has the numerator as the sum of both numerators and resultant denominator is the LCM.

2. convert it to decimal and then add them:

Divide each numerator by its denominator and each will result in a decimal number. Now add both decimal number and that's the resultant answer in decimal form.

Adding fractions with common denominators:Example: 1/4 plus 3/4The example has the same denominator so all you have to do is add the top numbers (the numerators)1 + 3 = 4 so... 1/4 + 3/4 = 4/4 (which is equal to 1)Adding fractions with different denominators:Example: 2/6 plus 2/3For this problem you have to find the common denominator.2/3 x 2 (to both top and bottom) gives us 4/64/6 + 2/6 = 6/6 (or 1)Hope this helps...