Add Fractions — Unlike Denominators - Arithmetic Step by Step

Add 1/4 + 1/6. Find the LCD of 4 and 6, which is 12. Convert each fraction: 1/4 = 3/12 and 1/6 = 2/12. Then add: 3/12 + 2/12 = 5/12.

Example

add-unlike-denominators.math

1/4 + 1/6

step: LCD of 4 and 6 is 12
step: 1/4 x 3/3 = 3/12
step: 1/6 x 2/2 = 2/12
step: 3/12 + 2/12 = 5/12
step: 1/4 + 1/6 = 5/12

lcd-for-addition You cannot add fractions with different denominators until they measure the same size pieces. Use the LCD to find equivalent fractions with a common denominator, then add the numerators as usual.