Adding Fractions with Like Denominators

Fractions with the same denominators are called like fractions .

To add fractions with like denominators, add the numerators , and write the sum over the denominator.

$\frac{3}{8} + \frac{2}{8} = \frac{5}{8}$

Example :

Find $\frac{4}{9} + \frac{3}{9}$ .

Since the denominators are the same, add the numerators.

$\frac{4 + 3}{9}$

$= \frac{7}{9}$

You may get an answer which is not in lowest terms , even if the fractions you were adding and subtracting both were. In this case, you have to reduce the fraction .

$\frac{7}{12} + \frac{1}{12} = \frac{8}{12} = \frac{8 \div 4}{12 \div 4} = \frac{2}{3}$

Adding Fractions with Like Denominators

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