Lesson 17: Adding Fractions (Different Denominators)
When adding fractions with different denominators, you must first find a common denominator so the fractions can be combined.
Steps to Add Fractions with Different Denominators
- Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD).
- Rewrite each fraction using the LCD.
- Add the new numerators together.
- Keep the common denominator.
- Simplify if possible.
Example
1/3 + 1/6 ? LCD is 6 ? 2/6 + 1/6 = 3/6 ? Simplify ? 1/2
2/5 + 1/2 ? LCD is 10 ? 4/10 + 5/10 = 9/10
Helpful Tips
Always reduce your final answer to simplest form.
Using the LCM of the denominators helps you find the LCD faster.
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