Subtraction of Fractions

Subtraction of Fractions

The steps are almost the same as the addition of fractions steps:

1. Change all mixed numbers to improper fractions.
2. Write equivalent fractions so the fractions have a common denominator.
3. Subtract the fractions: subtract the numerators and keep the denominator.
4. Reduce the final answer if possible.

Note: Again, this is not the only way to subtract fractions. But if you do not change the mixed numbers to improper fractions, then you may have to deal with the borrowing concept which makes subtraction of fractions more complicated.

Example 1.

Subtract:

Solution:

Example 2.

Subtract:

Solution.

To practice subtracting fractions, go to the Subtraction of Fractions Worksheet.

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Ocean County College - MATH 011