Subtracting Fractions Practice Problems with Answers
Five solved subtraction problems first, then unlimited practice with like denominators, unlike denominators, and mixed numbers.
5 subtracting fractions problems with answers
Each one shows the answer and the working. Try it yourself first, then check.
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1.5/7 - 2/7
Answer: 3/7
Same denominator, so subtract numerators only: 5 - 2 = 3. The denominator stays 7.
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2.3/4 - 1/2
Answer: 1/4
Rewrite 1/2 as 2/4, then subtract: 3/4 - 2/4 = 1/4.
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3.7/10 - 2/5
Answer: 3/10
10 is a multiple of 5, so only 2/5 changes: 2/5 = 4/10. Then 7/10 - 4/10 = 3/10.
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4.5/6 - 3/8
Answer: 11/24
The LCD of 6 and 8 is 24. Rewrite as 20/24 - 9/24 = 11/24, already simplest.
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5.1 1/4 - 2/3
Answer: 7/12
Convert 1 1/4 to 5/4. The LCD of 4 and 3 is 12: 15/12 - 8/12 = 7/12.
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Quick Tips
- Find a common denominator before subtracting.
- Subtract only the numerators once denominators match.
- Remember to simplify the final answer.
- If the first fraction is smaller, the result might be negative!
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Understanding Fraction Subtraction
How to Subtract Fractions
Subtracting fractions is very similar to adding them:
- Find a common denominator if the fractions have different denominators.
- Convert fractions to equivalent forms with the common denominator.
- Subtract the second numerator from the first numerator. Keep the common denominator.
- Simplify the resulting fraction if needed.
Example
Let's subtract 3/4 - 1/6:
- Find a common denominator: 12 (the least common multiple of 4 and 6)
- Convert 3/4 to 9/12 (multiply numerator and denominator by 3)
- Convert 1/6 to 2/12 (multiply numerator and denominator by 2)
- Subtract the numerators: 9/12 - 2/12 = 7/12
- 7/12 is already in simplest form
Important Note
Be careful when subtracting a larger fraction from a smaller one, as this can result in a negative fraction.