Adding and Subtracting Dissimilar Fractions by MathoGuide To add or subtract dissimilar (unlike) fractions, you need to find a common denominator. Here are the steps:
1. **Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD):** This is the smallest number that both denominators can divide into evenly.
2. **Convert to Equivalent Fractions:** Change each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD as the new denominator.
3. **Add or Subtract the Numerators:** Keep the common denominator and perform the addition or subtraction on the numerators.
4. **Simplify if Necessary:** Reduce the fraction to its simplest form.
### Example: Adding Fractions
Add (2/3) and (1/4):
1. **Find the LCD:** - Denominators are 3 and 4. - The LCD of 3 and 4 is 12.
2. **Convert to Equivalent Fractions:** 2/3 becomes (2 times 4)/(3 times 4) = 8/12.
