Work out 2/3 - 1/4

numerator/denominator
First we need to find the common denominator (a number that can be divided by both 3 and 4)
3 x 4 = 12 (so our new, common, denominator is 12)
Whatever we do to the bottom of a fraction (the denominator) we must also do to the top
For 2/3 we multiplied 3 (the denominator) x 4 to get the new common denominator (12) and so we also need to multiply the numerator (2) by 4
2/3 = 8/12
For 1/4 we multiplied 4 (the denominator) x 3 to get the new common denominator (12) and so we also need to multiply the numerator (1) by 3
1/4 = 3/12
So our new problem is 8/12 - 3/12
Working across the numerators we do our subtraction problem, but the denominator will remain the same
8/12 - 3/12 = 5/12 (this is the final answer as this fraction cannot be simplified any further)

Answered by Maths tutor

15798 Views

See similar Maths KS3 tutors

Related Maths KS3 answers

All answers ▸

The 4th and 5th multiples of a number are 24 and 30. What is the number?


What is the Pythagoras’ theorem and how can it be used to work out the distance between two points?


I'm really bad at non-calculator questions - how can I get better at calculations?


Solve the following simultaneous equations: a + 3b = 12, 4a - 3b = 18 (KS3 2010 Paper 2)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning