Topic 3 of 5
Adding fractions with unlike denominators
Before you can add two fractions, they need to share the same denominator. Here's the idea, in the order EduSpace thinks will make it click for you.
Step 1 — Find a common denominator
To add 3/4 and 1/2, find a number both 4 and 2 divide into evenly. That number is 4.
Step 2 — Convert each fraction
3/4 already has a denominator of 4. 1/2 becomes 2/4 by multiplying the top and bottom by 2.
Step 3 — Add the numerators only
3/4 + 2/4 = 5/4, which simplifies to 1 1/4.
AI tutor note
Based on your last attempt, you added the denominators too — that's the most common early mistake here. Only the numerators combine once the denominators match.