Fractions Examples in Math

Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of Fractions.

This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Math.

Concept Recap

A number representing a part of a whole, written as one integer over another non-zero integer.

A pizza cut into 4 slicesβ€”eating 1 slice means you ate \frac{1}{4} of the pizza.

Read the full concept explanation β†’

How to Use These Examples

  • Read the first worked example with the solution open so the structure is clear.
  • Try the practice problems before revealing each solution.
  • Use the related concepts and background knowledge badges if you feel stuck.

What to Focus On

Core idea: Fractions represent division and parts of wholes simultaneously.

Common stuck point: Larger denominator means smaller pieces, not larger fraction.

Sense of Study hint: Draw two same-sized rectangles, split one into the denominator's number of parts, and shade the numerator's count to see the actual size.

Worked Examples

Example 1

easy
Add \frac{2}{5} + \frac{1}{5}.

Solution

  1. 1
    Check that the denominators are the same: both fractions have denominator 5.
  2. 2
    Since denominators match, add the numerators directly: \frac{2 + 1}{5} = \frac{3}{5}.
  3. 3
    Simplify: \gcd(3, 5) = 1, so \frac{3}{5} is already in lowest terms.

Answer

\frac{3}{5}
When fractions share the same denominator, you simply add the numerators and keep the denominator unchanged. Always check whether the result can be simplified.

Example 2

medium
Which is larger: \frac{3}{7} or \frac{5}{11}?

Example 3

medium
Add \frac{2}{3} + \frac{3}{4}.

Practice Problems

Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.

Example 1

easy
Add \frac{4}{9} + \frac{2}{9}.

Example 2

medium
Arrange \frac{2}{3}, \frac{5}{8}, and \frac{7}{12} in order from least to greatest.

Background Knowledge

These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.

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