math help

What is 31/12 - 3/12?

What is 31/12 - 3/12?

Here's how to subtract 3/12 from 31/12:

31
12
3
12

Step 1

Since our denominators match, we can subtract the numerators.

31 − 3 = 28

So the answer is:

28
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:

28
12
÷ 2 =
14
6

Let's try dividing by 2 again...

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

14
6
÷ 2 =
7
3

Let's try dividing by 2 again...

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

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 5...

No good. 5 is larger than 3. So we're done reducing.

There you have it! The final answer is:
31
12
3
12
=
7
3