Rule 18: ADDITION

To add fractions, the denominators must be equal. Complete the following steps to add two fractions.
1.
Build each fraction so that both denominators are equal.
2.
Add the numerators of the fractions.
3.
The denominators will be the denominator of the built-up fractions.
4.
Reduce the answer.

Example:
Calculate tex2html_wrap_inline46 .
Answer:
The answer is tex2html_wrap_inline48 .
Solution:
The denominators are the same, so you can skip step 1. The denominator of the answer will be 5. Add the numerators for the numerator in the answer. 3 + 1 = 4. The answer is tex2html_wrap_inline50 . This answer is already reduced, so you can skip step 4.

Check:
You can check the answer with your calculator. Calculate 3 divided by 5, calculate 1 divided by 5, and add the results. Now divide 4 by 5. Both answers should be the same. If you are correct, the answers are the same (equivalent) and you have successfully added two fractions.

If you would like to review another example, click on the word Example.

Work the following problems and click on Answer to check your results.

Problem 1:
Add the fractions tex2html_wrap_inline52 and reduce your answer.
Answer

Problem 2:
Add the fractions tex2html_wrap_inline54 and reduce your answer.
Answer

Problem 3:
Add the fractions tex2html_wrap_inline56 and reduce your answer.
Answer

Problem 4:
Add the fractions tex2html_wrap_inline58 and reduce your answer.
Answer

Problem 5:
Add the fractions tex2html_wrap_inline60 and reduce your answer.
Answer

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