Are you finding the subtraction of fractions hard to solve in JAMB and WAEC questions?
In this lesson…
You will learn the step-by-step method for the subtraction of fractions in your WAEC and JAMB exam question.
ALSO SEE: How To Solve The Addition Of Fractions (Simple Steps)
Take note.
A link for you to practice real exam past questions on fractions is included at the bottom of this lesson.
Steps in subtraction of fractions
- Convert mixed to improper fraction.
- Find their LCM.
- Divide the LCM by the denominator.
- Multiply by the numerator.
- Subtract the numerators.
- Reduce to its lowest form.
Let’s take an example.
Sample question
3\frac{2}{3} – \frac{1}{6}
1. Convert the mixed fraction to improper fraction
3\frac{2}{3} (mixed fraction)
= \dfrac{11}{3} (improper fraction)
Therefore…
\dfrac{11}{3} – \dfrac{1}{6}
2. Find the LCM of the denominators
The LCM of 3 and 6
= 6
3. Write the LCM as your new denominator
\dfrac{}{6}
4. Divide the LCM by each denominator
6 ÷ 3 = 2
6 ÷ 6 = 1
5. Multiply the answer by their numerator
2 × 11 = 22
1 × 1 = 1
6. Write the answers as new numerators
\dfrac{22-1}{6}
7. Subtract the new numerators
\dfrac{22-1}{6}
= \dfrac{21}{6}
8. Reduce to its lowest form
\dfrac{21}{6}= \dfrac{7}{2}
Classwork
Click on the link below to practice exam past questions on fractions now.
Practice Test
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