Fraction Calculator
Add, subtract, multiply and divide fractions in one click.
What is it?
A fraction calculator is an online tool that lets you perform arithmetic operations on fractions quickly and accurately. Whether you need to add two fractions with different denominators, subtract a mixed number, multiply three fractions at once, or divide and simplify the result, this tool handles every step automatically — showing you the fully simplified answer along with an optional step-by-step breakdown. Fractions are used in everyday situations: cooking recipes that need to be scaled, school homework, carpentry measurements, medication dosages, and financial ratios. Getting fraction arithmetic right by hand requires finding the least common denominator (LCD), converting mixed numbers, and simplifying — all steps that are easy to get wrong. This calculator eliminates errors and saves time. The calculator handles proper fractions (like 3/4), improper fractions (like 7/4), and mixed numbers (like 1¾). It automatically simplifies the result to its lowest terms using the greatest common divisor (GCD), and it can show the equivalent decimal value so you always understand what the fraction actually represents.
How to use it
- Enter the first fraction using the numerator and denominator fields. For mixed numbers, fill in the whole number field too.
- Choose the operation: addition (+), subtraction (−), multiplication (×), or division (÷).
- Enter the second fraction in the same way.
- The result appears instantly — fully simplified and also shown as a decimal.
- Click "Show steps" to see the full working, including the LCD calculation for addition and subtraction.
- Use the "Simplify" mode if you just need to reduce a single fraction to its lowest terms.
Why use this tool
Fraction arithmetic is notoriously error-prone when done by hand. Finding the lowest common denominator, converting improper fractions, and simplifying the result are all mechanical steps that take time and introduce mistakes. This free online fraction calculator automates every step in under a second. Unlike a standard phone calculator, this tool works natively with fractions — not just decimals — so you always get an exact answer in fraction form. The step-by-step view makes it an excellent learning tool for students studying fractions in middle school or for parents helping with homework. Results are shown in the simplest possible form, and you can toggle between fraction and decimal representation at any time. The tool works entirely in your browser: no data is sent to any server, there is no account to create, and it is completely free with no usage limits.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add fractions with different denominators?
Find the least common denominator (LCD) of both fractions, convert each fraction so it has that denominator, then add the numerators. This calculator does all of that automatically and shows you each step.
Can I calculate with mixed numbers like 2½?
Yes. Enter the whole part in the whole-number field and the fraction part in the numerator/denominator fields. The calculator converts the mixed number to an improper fraction internally before computing.
How does the simplification work?
The calculator finds the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator of the result, then divides both by it to produce the simplest equivalent fraction.
What is an improper fraction?
An improper fraction has a numerator larger than its denominator, such as 7/4. It is equivalent to the mixed number 1¾. This calculator can display results in either form.
Can I divide a fraction by another fraction?
Yes. Dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal. For example, ½ ÷ ¾ = ½ × 4/3 = 4/6 = 2/3. The calculator handles this automatically.