math help

What is 31/12 + 1/12?

What is 31/12 + 1/12?

Here's how to add

31
12
+
1
12

Step 1

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

31 + 1 = 32

So the answer is:

32
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:

32
12
÷ 2 =
16
6

So far so good... let's try to divide by that number again.

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

16
6
÷ 2 =
8
3

So far so good... let's try to divide by that number again.

No good. So next you try the next prime number, which is 3...

No good. So next you try the next prime number, which is 5...

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

And we're done! Here's the final answer to 31/12 + 1/12

31
12
+
1
12
=
8
3
© 2014 Randy Tayler