ā Wrong: Not simplifying: Answer = 6/8
ā
Right: Always simplify: 6/8 = 3/4
Marks lost for not giving simplest form
ā Wrong: 2Ā½ = 2Ć1 + 2 = 4/2
ā
Right: 2Ā½ = 2Ć2 + 1 = 5/2
Multiply whole by denominator, not numerator
ā Wrong: Ā¾ of 80 = 80Ć·3Ć4
ā
Right: Ā¾ of 80 = 80Ć·4Ć3 = 60
Divide by denominator first, then multiply
This exam tips covers Common Mistakes to Avoid within Fractions Basics for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Fractions Basics in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 12 of 14 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Practice questions for Fractions Basics
In the fraction 5/8, which number is the denominator?
Explain the difference between a proper fraction, an improper fraction and a mixed number. Give one example of each.
Quick recall flashcards
Visualizing fractions
Pizza model: Whole divided into equal slices
Bar model: Rectangle split into equal parts
Number line: Fractions between 0 and 1
Always think: Parts out of a whole
Parts of a fraction
Numerator = top number (how many parts)
Denominator = bottom number (total parts)
Fraction bar = division line
3/4 means '3 out of 4 equal parts'