math help

What is 31/12 + 8/12?

What is 31/12 + 8/12?

Here's how to add

31
12
+
8
12

Step 1

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

31 + 8 = 39

That gives us the sum, which is

39
12

Step 2

Now, do we need to simplify this fraction?

First, we attempt to divide it by 2...

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

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

39
12
÷ 3 =
13
4

Let's try dividing by that again...

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

No good. 5 is larger than 4. So we're done reducing.

There you have it! Here's the final answer to 31/12 + 8/12

31
12
+
8
12
=
13
4
© 2014 Randy Tayler