Fractions:Addition & Subtraction

Grade 5Fractions

Add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators by finding common denominators.

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1Add fractions with unlike denominators

Find a common denominator first, then add the numerators.

Example:
34+16
34
16

Convert to a common denominator (12).

912+212=1112

2Subtract fractions with unlike denominators

Find a common denominator first, then subtract the numerators.

Example:
56−14
56
14

Convert to a common denominator (12).

1012−312=712

3Add mixed numbers

Convert to a common denominator, then add the whole numbers and fractions.

Example:
112+214
112
214

Convert to a common denominator (4).

112 = 124214➜334

4Subtract mixed numbers

Convert to a common denominator. Regroup if needed, then subtract.

Example:
413−156
  1. Convert to sixths:
    413 = 426
  2. Regroup (borrow 1 whole):
    426 = 386
  3. Subtract:
    386 − 156 = 236
212

Simplify 36 to 12.

⭐ Try it yourself!

What is 2/3 + 1/4?