Subtracting Fractions Calculator
Subtract fractions with different denominators and mixed numbers with step-by-step solutions
Subtract Fractions
First Fraction
Second Fraction
Common Examples
Simple Fractions
Mixed Numbers
Subtraction Rules
Same Denominators
Subtract numerators, keep denominator
Different Denominators
Find LCM, convert fractions, subtract
Mixed Numbers
Convert to improper fractions first
Always Simplify
Reduce result to lowest terms
Fraction Types
Proper Fraction
Numerator < Denominator
3/4, 2/5, 7/8
Improper Fraction
Numerator ≥ Denominator
5/3, 9/4, 12/5
Mixed Number
Whole + Proper Fraction
2 1/3, 5 3/8, 1 1/2
Tips & Tricks
Find LCM of denominators for common denominator
Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions
Always simplify your final answer
Check your work by converting to decimals
Remember: a - b = -(b - a)
Understanding Fraction Subtraction
Basic Process
Subtracting fractions involves finding a common denominator and then subtracting the numerators. The process is similar to addition but with subtraction instead.
Steps to Follow
- Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions
- Find the LCM of denominators (common denominator)
- Convert fractions to equivalent fractions with common denominator
- Subtract the numerators
- Simplify the result
- Convert back to mixed number if needed
Key Concepts
- •LCM: Least Common Multiple of denominators
- •GCD: Greatest Common Divisor for simplification
- •Equivalent Fractions: Same value, different form
- •Simplification: Reducing to lowest terms
Common Mistakes
- ✗Subtracting denominators as well as numerators
- ✗Forgetting to find common denominator
- ✗Not simplifying the final result