Subtraction of Fractions
Learn how to find the difference between fractions step by step!
What is Subtracting Fractions?
When we subtract fractions, we are finding the difference between two fractional quantities.
- Finding how much more one fraction is than another
- The result is called the difference
- Like finding what's left after taking away a part
Real-life Example: If you have 3/4 of a pizza and eat 1/4, you have 2/4 = 1/2 left!
Interactive visualization — available in the full lesson
The Key Rule for Subtracting Fractions
Fractions can ONLY be subtracted directly when they have the SAME denominator!
Same Denominator
5/8 − 3/8
Same-sized parts (eighths)
Can subtract directly!
Different Denominators
1/2 − 1/3
Different-sized parts
Must convert first!
Think About It
You can't subtract 3 apples from 5 oranges directly!
Same idea with fractions!