Fraction Guides
Comprehensive guides explaining fraction concepts, operations, and conversions. Each guide covers the theory, common methods, practical applications, and frequently asked questions about the topic.
How to Add Fractions
Learn the complete method for adding fractions, including finding common denominators, adding numerators, and simplifying results. Covers both proper fractions and mixed numbers.
Essential foundation skill for all fraction work
How to Divide Fractions
Master fraction division using the multiply-by-reciprocal method. Includes explanation of why this method works and how to handle whole numbers and mixed numbers.
Often considered the trickiest fraction operation
Fractions to Decimals and Percent
Convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages with confidence. Covers division methods, common conversions to memorize, and when to use each format.
Critical for real-world applications and comparisons
Study Guides and Revision Help
New guides covering multiplication, division, conversions, estimation, exam prep, and real-life applications of fractions.
Mixed Number to Percent: Step-by-Step Conversions with Examples
Step-by-step guide to converting mixed numbers into percentages, with worked examples covering common cases and edge cases.
Fraction to Percent: The Two-Step Method + Common Pitfalls
Turn any fraction into a percentage in two steps, and learn to spot the pitfalls that trip up students on tests.
Fraction to Decimal: Long Division Explained (Including Repeating Decimals)
A practical guide to turning fractions into decimals using long division, including how to recognise and write repeating decimals.
Reducing Fractions to Simplest Form: GCF Method + Quick Checklist
A step-by-step guide to simplifying fractions using the GCF, plus a quick checklist for spotting when a fraction can be reduced.
Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators: LCM Method + Mistake Finder
Adding fractions with different denominators trips up many learners. This guide breaks the LCM method into clear steps and helps you find your own mistakes.
Divide Fractions: Keep, Change, Flip Explained (and Why It Works)
The keep-change-flip rule makes fraction division mechanical, but understanding why it works stops mistakes before they start.
Why Multiplying Fractions Can Make Numbers Smaller: Scaling Explained
Multiplication doesn't always make things bigger. Here's why multiplying by a fraction shrinks the result, and how to think about it clearly.
Multiplying Mixed Numbers: Convert to Improper Fractions (Worked Steps)
Master the convert-then-multiply approach for mixed numbers, with full worked steps and common-mistake warnings.
How to Multiply Fractions: Steps, Shortcuts, and Answer Checks
A plain-English guide to multiplying fractions correctly and spotting common answer-check mistakes.
What's in Each Guide
Every guide on this site follows a consistent structure designed to take you from basic understanding to confident application:
Concept Introduction
Clear explanation of what the operation means and why it's useful in mathematics and everyday situations.
Step-by-Step Method
The standard algorithm broken down into manageable steps with examples showing each stage of the process.
Common Scenarios
Real-world situations where you'd use this skill, from cooking measurements to construction calculations.
Common Mistakes
Typical errors to watch out for, with explanations of why these mistakes happen and how to avoid them.
Practice Resources
Links to relevant calculators and worked examples for immediate practice and application of the concepts.
How to Use These Guides
These guides work best when used alongside the calculators and worked examples:
- Start with the Guide: Read through to understand the method and reasoning
- Try the Examples: Follow along with worked examples to see the method in action
- Use the Calculator: Practice with your own numbers using the relevant calculator
- Review as Needed: Return to the guide when you encounter unfamiliar situations
The guides assume basic familiarity with whole numbers and simple arithmetic. If you're completely new to fractions, start with the "How to Add Fractions" guide, as it establishes fundamental concepts used throughout fraction mathematics.
Different textbooks and curricula may teach these concepts in different orders or with different notation. The methods shown here are widely accepted standard approaches, but always check that they align with what your instructor or textbook expects.