| Operation | Rule | Example | Key Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Add (same denom) | Add numerators only | 2/7 + 3/7 = 5/7 | Keep denominator same |
| Add (diff denom) | Find LCM first | 1/3 + 1/4 = 4/12 + 3/12 = 7/12 | Convert to same denominator |
| Multiply | Top Ć top, bottom Ć bottom | 2/3 Ć 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2 | Simplify after |
| Divide | Keep, Flip, Change (KFC) | 2/3 Ć· 3/4 = 2/3 Ć 4/3 = 8/9 | Flip second fraction |
This key facts covers Quick Reference: Fraction Operations within Fraction Operations for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Fraction Operations in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 14 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 3 of 15 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Fraction Operations
Which of these fractions is the largest? ā Ā¾ ā ā
Explain why you need a common denominator when adding fractions, but not when multiplying fractions.
Quick recall flashcards
Quick: 1/2 of 3/4
1/2 Ć 3/4 = 3/8
Half of anything: divide by 2
Or multiply by 1/2
Multiplying fractions
Top Ć Top, Bottom Ć Bottom
2/3 Ć 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2
No need for common denominators!