Fractions in a Nutshell
What you need to know and how to do it!
What is a fraction? numerator/ denominator = part/whole
¾ = This means you have eaten 3 out of the total 4 pieces of pizza or you have 3 red marbles out of a total 4
Adding/Subtracting fractions with like denominators 1. Check if fractions have the same denominator.
2. If they do, Add the numerators.
3. Bring down the denominators (DO NOT add them).
Adding/Subtracting fractions with unlike denominators 1. Check to see if the denominators are the same.
2. If not, find a common denominator.
3. See how many times the denominator goes into the common denominator.
4. Multiply that number by the numerator to find your new numerator.
5. Add or Subtract
Equivalent fractions Definition: Fractions that have different number of pieces but represent the same amount.
Finding equivalent fractions 1. Multiply or divide the numerator and the denominator by the same number.
Reducing fractions 1. Find factors for the numerator and denominator.
2. Circle the factors that are the same.
3. Choose the largest common factor.
4. Divide the numerator and denominator by that number.
5. Do again if necessary.
Comparing fractions 1. Draw arrows to make an “X”.
2. Cross multiply.
3. The fraction that has the larger product over it is the larger fraction.
Number lines Numerator= The number of the line the dot is on

Denominator= The total number of spaces between the whole numbers.
Word Problems
Add
All together
total
Subtract
How many were left?
How much more?


Extra things to remember:

Factor- The numbers that when multiplied together, form a product.
Ex. 16 - The factors are (1, 2, 4, 8, 16)
12 – The factors are (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12)

Common denominator- A number that both of the denominators will divide into evenly. This number must be at least as big is the larger denominator. Two quick ways to find a common denominator is to see if the larger denominator can be divided by the smaller denominator OR to multiply the denominators together.

Each of the problems worked out will eventually be added to the study guide. However for now, please use your book if more help is needed!