What is 3/18 + 4/12?

This is how you add

Step 1

We still have different denominators (bottom numbers), though, so we need to get a common denominator. This will make the bottom numbers match. Multiply the denominators together first. Now, multiply each numerator by the other term's denominator.

Now we multiply 3 by 12, and get 36, then we multiply 18 by 12 and get 216.

Now for the second term. You multiply 4 by 18, and get 72, then multiply 18 by 12 and get 216.

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

36 + 72 = 108

So what's the answer so far?

Step 3

Can this fraction be reduced?

First, we attempt to divide 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...

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

Now, try the same number again.

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

Now, try the same number again.

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

Now, try the same number again.

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

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 3/18 + 4/12