Subtracting fractions

 

It is a three step process to subtract fractions.

  1. Rename with common denominators
  2. Subtract whole numbers and numerators
  3. Simplify (if needed)
 The problem $$5\frac{5}{6}\,-\,2\frac{2}{9}\,=$$
Rename with common denominators $$5\frac{15}{18}\,-\,2\frac{4}{18}\,=$$
Subtract $$3\frac{11}{18}$$
Simplify  not needed this time

 


Here is another example.

 The problem

$$5\frac{2}{3}\,-\,2\frac{1}{6}\,=$$

Rename with common denominators

[show answer]

Subtract

[show answer]

Simplify

[show answer]

 

 

Duane Habecker, Created with GeoGebra

 

 View subtracting fractions with the area model.

 

For more practice with fractions, please try this Fraction Calculator.

 


 

Self-Check


Question 1

$\large~8\frac{3}{5}-4\frac{1}{3}=$

 

 

 

[show answer]


Question 2

$\large~6\frac{2}{3}-2\frac{5}{8}=$

 

 

 

[show answer]


Question 3

$\large~4\frac{8}{9}-1\frac{3}{4}=$

 

 

 

[show answer]


 

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