How to Add and Subtract Fractions: GED Math Tutorial

The Importance of Common Denominators

• 🔑 When adding or subtracting fractions, the fundamental rule is to ensure they have common denominators.
• 💡 This process involves adjusting the fractions without changing their original value.

Method for Adding Fractions

• ➕ To add 2/3 + 1/4, first multiply the first fraction by 4/4 and the second fraction by 3/3.
• 🚀 This results in 8/12 + 3/12, transforming the problem into adding fractions with a common denominator.
• ✅ The sum of the numerators, 8 + 3, gives 11, leading to the final answer of 11/12.

Method for Subtracting Fractions

• ➖ For subtracting fractions, like 3/4 - 1/5, apply the same principle of finding common denominators.
• 🎯 Multiply the first fraction by 5/5 and the second fraction by 4/4.
• 🧩 This yields 15/20 - 4/20, allowing for subtraction of the numerators.
• 🌟 The difference, 15 - 4, results in 11/20.

Key Takeaway

• 🧠 The core strategy for both adding and subtracting fractions is achieving common denominators to simplify the operation.