math help

What is 11/12 - 3/12?

What is 11/12 - 3/12?

Here's how to subtract 3/12 from 11/12:

11
12
3
12

Step 1

Since our denominators match, we can subtract the numerators.

11 − 3 = 8

So the answer is:

8
12

Step 2

Last of all, we need to simplify the fraction, if possible. Can it be reduced to a simpler fraction?

To find out, we try dividing it by 2...

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 2? Yes! So we reduce it:

8
12
÷ 2 =
4
6

Let's try dividing by 2 again...

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 2? Yes! So we reduce it:

4
6
÷ 2 =
2
3

Let's try dividing by 2 again...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 3...

No good. 3 is larger than 2. So we're done reducing.

There you have it! The final answer is:
11
12
3
12
=
2
3