To Subtract fractions with unlike denominators; it is necessary to build each fraction so that both denominators are equal and then re-write each equivalent fraction using this new denominator. Now, subtract the numerators of the fractions, while keeping the denominator of the equivalent fractions. Finally, the fractions should be simplified or reduced, if needed.
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There are 3 simple steps to subtract fractions
Make sure the bottom numbers (the denominators) are the same.
Subtract the top numbers (the numerators). Put the answer over the same denominator.
Simplify the fraction (if needed).
Build each fraction so that both denominators are equal. Remember, when adding fractions with different denominators, the denominators must be equal. So we must complete this step first. Now you can add the numerators, and keep the denominator of the equivalent fractions.
if you add the numbers and the numerator is larger than the denominator, you can change the fraction to a mixed number following the same steps. If the denominators are not the same, you still need to convert them before adding.
First we divide the numerator and denominator by “2”, then divide both the numerator and denominator by “3.” So what is left in the numerator is 1 x 1 x 1 = 1 and the denominator is 1 x 1 x 2 x 1 = 2. That leaves use with a reduced fraction equal to 1/2.
