Fraction Guide and Calculator
Subtracting Fractions With Unlike Denominators
Subtract fractions with different denominators without decimal rounding. Find the LCD, convert both terms, subtract the numerators, and simplify.
Subtracting fractions example
Example: 3/4 - 1/6 uses LCD 12. Convert to 9/12 - 2/12, then subtract to get 7/12.
How this page connects to fraction work
Keep the order of the operands. Changing the order changes the sign of the result. Link to the LCD calculator when you need to test additional denominators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do fractions need a common denominator?
Fractions must use the same denominator before their numerators can be added or subtracted directly.
Can I use the LCD calculator for more than two fractions?
Yes. Enter the denominators or fractions and the calculator finds the least shared denominator.