How do I add fractions with different denominators?
Find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators, convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with this LCM as the denominator, then add the numerators.
Can you show me how to add 1/2 and 3/4?
To add 1/2 and 3/4, find a common denominator (4), convert 1/2 to 2/4, then add: 2/4 + 3/4 = 5/4.
What if the denominators are already the same?
If the denominators are the same, simply add the numerators and keep the denominator. For example, 1/3 + 2/3 = 3/3.
How do I add more than two fractions?
Find a common denominator for all fractions, convert each to an equivalent fraction with this denominator, then add all the numerators together.
Can you explain how to find the least common multiple (LCM)?
The LCM of two numbers is the smallest number that both can divide into evenly. For example, the LCM of 2 and 4 is 4.
What should I do if one fraction has a denominator of 1?
If one fraction has a denominator of 1, it’s equivalent to a whole number. Convert it to a fraction with the same denominator as the other fractions before adding.
Is there a shortcut for adding fractions with denominators that are multiples of each other?
Yes, if one denominator is a multiple of the other, use the larger denominator as the common denominator and adjust the numerator of the smaller fraction accordingly.