Adding and Subtracting Fractions

A fraction represents a part of a whole and consists of a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number).

The numerator is the top number in a fraction that indicates how many parts are being considered.

The denominator is the bottom number in a fraction that indicates how many equal parts the whole is divided into.

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator, such as 6/3.

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a proper fraction, like 1 2/3.

When adding fractions with the same denominator, you only add the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

1/3 + 2/3 = 3/3 = 1.

1 - 3/5 = 2/5.

Convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions before adding.

1 1/3 + 2 1/3 = 3 2/3.