What is 3/12 - 9/12?

Here's how to subtract 9/12 from 3/12:

Step 1

Since our denominators match, we can subtract the numerators.

3 − 9 = -6

So the answer is:

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:

Let's try dividing by 2 again...

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:

Let's try dividing by 3 again...

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