How to Add and Simplify Fractions
Verify the fractions have the same denominator., Add the numerators., Place the numerators’ sum over the denominator.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Verify the fractions have the same denominator.
A denominator is the number below the fraction bar.If the fractions do not have the same denominator, you cannot use this method.
For example, if you are calculating 24+14{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}}, you can note that both fractions have the same denominator:
4. -
Step 2: Add the numerators.
A numerator is the number above the fraction bar.
Add numerators the same way you would add integers.For example, the numerators of 24{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}} and 14{\displaystyle {\frac {1}{4}}} are 2 and 1, so you would calculate 2+1=3{\displaystyle 2+1=3}.
So, 3 is the numerator of your sum. , Since both fractions you are adding have the same denominator, the denominator of their sum will also be the same.For example, the sum of 24+14{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}} will have a denominator of 4: 24+14=34{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}={\frac {3}{4}}}. -
Step 3: Place the numerators’ sum over the denominator.
Detailed Guide
A denominator is the number below the fraction bar.If the fractions do not have the same denominator, you cannot use this method.
For example, if you are calculating 24+14{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}}, you can note that both fractions have the same denominator:
4.
A numerator is the number above the fraction bar.
Add numerators the same way you would add integers.For example, the numerators of 24{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}} and 14{\displaystyle {\frac {1}{4}}} are 2 and 1, so you would calculate 2+1=3{\displaystyle 2+1=3}.
So, 3 is the numerator of your sum. , Since both fractions you are adding have the same denominator, the denominator of their sum will also be the same.For example, the sum of 24+14{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}} will have a denominator of 4: 24+14=34{\displaystyle {\frac {2}{4}}+{\frac {1}{4}}={\frac {3}{4}}}.
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Brittany Vasquez
Creates helpful guides on home improvement to inspire and educate readers.
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