What is 2/6 + 8/12?

Here's how to add

Step 1

Our denominators (bottom numbers) don't match, so we can't add yet.

Since 6 is evenly divided by 12, we can multiply just one term to get a common denominator.

Multiply 2 by 2, and get 4, then we multiply 6 by 2 and get 12.

So now our fractions look like this:

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

4 + 8 = 12

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...

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

Now, try the same number again.

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

Now, try the same number again.

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

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 3? Yes! So we reduce it:

Now, try the same number again.

No good. 3 is larger than 1. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 2/6 + 8/12