How to Add and Simplify Fractions

To add and simplify fractions, follow these steps:

Step 1: Find a common denominator Find a common denominator for the fractions you want to add. The common denominator is the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators of the fractions.

Step 2: Convert the fractions Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the common denominator found in step 1. To do this, multiply the numerator and denominator of each fraction by the same number, so that the denominator becomes the common denominator found in step 1.

Step 3: Add the fractions Add the numerators of the fractions obtained in step 2. Keep the denominator the same.

Step 4: Simplify the result Simplify the fraction obtained in step 3 by finding the greatest common factor (GCF) of the numerator and denominator, and dividing both by it. This will give you the simplest form of the fraction.

Example: Let's say you want to add 1/4 and 2/3.

Step 1: Find the common denominator The LCM of 4 and 3 is 12, so the common denominator is 12.

Step 2: Convert the fractions 1/4 = 3/12 (multiply numerator and denominator by 3) 2/3 = 8/12 (multiply numerator and denominator by 4)

Step 3: Add the fractions 3/12 + 8/12 = 11/12

Step 4: Simplify the result The GCF of 11 and 12 is 1, so the fraction 11/12 is already in simplest form.

Therefore, the sum of 1/4 and 2/3 is 11/12.