This is how we add
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Step 1Our denominators (bottom numbers) don't match, so we can't add yet. 12 goes into 6 evenly, so we only need to multiply one term to get a common denominator. Multiply 5 by 2, and get 10, then we multiply 6 by 2 and get 12. We now have a new problem, that looks like this:
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Step 2Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators. 8 + 10 = 18 That gives us the sum, which is
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Step 3Now, do we need to simplify this fraction? 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. 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. No good. 3 is larger than 2. So we're done reducing. Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 8/12 + 5/6
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