Adding Improper Fractions with Different Denominators: Step-by-Step Example
22 October 2026
Worked example
Add 5/3 + 4/6
Step 1: Find a common denominator. The denominators are 3 and 6. The smallest number both go into is 6.
Step 2: Change 5/3 to an equivalent fraction with denominator 6. Multiply top and bottom by 2: 5 × 2 = 10 and 3 × 2 = 6. So 5/3 = 10/6.
Step 3: Now add the fractions. 10/6 + 4/6 = (10 + 4)/6 = 14/6.
Step 4: Simplify the answer. 14 and 6 can both be divided by 2. 14 ÷ 2 = 7 and 6 ÷ 2 = 3. So 14/6 = 7/3.
Step 5: Write the answer. 5/3 + 4/6 = 7/3. This can also be written as 2 1/3 (two wholes and one third).
The correct answer is 7/3 or 2 1/3.
