Lesson · M.2.2
Adding and subtracting fractions
How to add and subtract fractions on the HESI A2 math subtest, with common and unlike denominators, mixed numbers, and borrowing.
ObjectiveM.2.2Read4 minExam weightFractions ≈ 20% of Mathematics
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See editions and pricing →What you will be able to do
- Add and subtract fractions that already share a denominator.
- Find a common denominator and add or subtract fractions that do not match.
- Add and subtract mixed numbers, including borrowing when a fraction runs short.
What the lesson concludes
- You can only add or subtract numerators once the denominators match.
- A common denominator does not have to be the smallest one, but the least common denominator keeps the numbers manageable.
- Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions, or borrow a whole as an equivalent fraction, before subtracting.
- Always reduce the final answer and convert an improper result back to a mixed number.