What is 12/13 + 1/2?

Here's how to add

Step 1

We can't add two fractions with different denominators (the bottom number). So you need to get a common denominator - both bottom numbers need to match. To do this, you'll multiply the denominators times each other... but the numerators have to change, too. They get multiplied by the other term's denominator.

So we multiply 12 by 2, and get 24, then we multiply 13 by 2 and get 26.

Do the same for the second term. We multiply 1 by 13, and get 13, then multiply 13 by 2 and get 26.

So now our fractions look like this:

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

24 + 13 = 37

Now we have an answer.

Step 3

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...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 3...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 5...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 7...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 11...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 13...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 17...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 19...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 23...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 29...

No good. 29 is larger than 26. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 12/13 + 1/2