Adding and subtracting fractions

When adding and subtracting fractions, make sure the fractions have the same denominator
(bottom number). Then just add or subtract the numerators (top numbers) and write the
same denominator.

—3 + —
4 = —
7    three-tenths and four-tenths is seven-tenths
10 10 10

11
—− —7 = —
4    eleven-twelfths take seven-twelfths is four-twelfths
12 12 12

The answer you get might need to be simplified. If the answer is an improper (top heavy)
fraction, it can be changed to a mixed number.

11
—− —7 = — 1
4 can be simplified to —
12 12 12 3 

4 + — 8 can be changed to the mixed number

4 = —
—
5 5 5
1—35  

If the fractions do not have the same denominator, you need to change one or both of
them to equivalent fractions.

3 + — 3 + —
4 = — 8 = 11 1
—
10 5 10 10 10
— = 110
—

Adding and subtracting mixed numbers

You need to add or subtract the whole number part of the second number first.

4 —37   + 2 —27   = 4 —37   + 2 + 2 =

—
7 
6 —37   + 2 =
—
7
6 —57  
With mixed number subtractions, take care if the second fraction is larger than the first.

5 —27 − 1 —47   = 5 —27   − 1 − 4 =

—
7 
4 —27   − 4 =
—
7 
3 —57

Test yourself 
Answer these, giving answers as simplified proper fractions or mixed
numbers.
Remember
1. a  —49 +1 =
—
9
—9 −
b  10 2
10 =
— —5 +
c  12 1
12 =
— d  —78 − 5
—
8 =
Make sure the fractions have the
9 4 =
2. a 10
— − —
5 b  —34 − —38 = c  11 2
12 − 3 =
— — d  —34 − 1
—
5 = same denominator before you
begin. You only need to add or
3. a 2 —6 − 2 —16 =
5 b  5 —25 − 1 —35 = c  7 —34 + 1 —23 = d  8 —37 − 5 —47 =
subtract the numerator.

Schofield & Sims  •  Key Stage 2  Maths Revision Guide Fractions, decimals and percentages 21