What is 36/4 + 4/8?

This is how we add

Step 1

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

Since 4 is evenly divided by 8, we can multiply just one term to get a common denominator.

Multiply 36 by 2, and get 72, then we multiply 4 by 2 and get 8.

So now our fractions look like this:

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

72 + 4 = 76

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...

No good. 3 is larger than 2. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 36/4 + 4/8