This calculator subtracts fractions and shows the working in a clear way.
We make the bottom numbers match, subtract the top numbers, and only simplify at the end.
Step-by-step method
- Set up the problem. Write the two fractions with a minus sign between them.
- Make the bottom numbers match. (Find a common denominator.)
- Subtract the top numbers. Keep the bottom number the same.
- Simplify the final fraction (only here).
Example 1:
3/4 − 1/2
Step 1 - Set up the problem. Write the two fractions with a minus sign between them.
In this problem: We are subtracting 1/2 from 3/4.
Step 2 - Make the bottom numbers match. (Find a common denominator.)
In this problem: The bottom numbers are 4 and 2. A good shared bottom number is 4. So we change both fractions into equal fractions with the same bottom number.
Step 3 - Subtract the top numbers. Keep the bottom number the same.
In this problem: Now both fractions have bottom 4, so we subtract the top numbers: 3 − 2 = 1.
Step 4 - Simplify the final fraction (only here).
In this problem: This fraction is already in simplest form.
Final answer: 3/4 − 1/2 = 1/4
Example 2:
5/18 − 2/10
Step 1 - Set up the problem. Write the two fractions with a minus sign between them.
In this problem: We are subtracting 2/10 from 5/18.
Step 2 - Make the bottom numbers match. (Find a common denominator.)
In this problem: The bottom numbers are 18 and 10. A good shared bottom number is 90. So we change both fractions into equal fractions with the same bottom number.
Step 3 - Subtract the top numbers. Keep the bottom number the same.
In this problem: Now both fractions have bottom 90, so we subtract the top numbers: 25 − 18 = 7.
Step 4 - Simplify the final fraction (only here).
In this problem: This fraction is already in simplest form.
Final answer: 5/18 − 2/10 = 7/90
