Explain How To Add 1/2 Plus 3/8?

1. Find a common denominator for 1/2 and 1/8. The value of that denominator will be a common multiple of 2 and 8. It is often convenient to use the Least Common Multiple (LCM), but any will do. In this case, 8 is a multiple of 2, so 8 is a suitable common denominator.

2. Express each fraction as an equivalent with the denominator found in the first step.
  1/2 = 4/8
  3/8 = 3/8

3. Add the numerators of these similar fractions. Express the sum over the denominator.
  (4/8) + (3/8) = (4+3)/8 = 7/8

1. Start off like this. 1/2 + 3/8

2. Find the common denominator. If you have trouble with this, List multiples of 2 and 8 and find the 2 that are same. You want the lowest number.

3. 1/2's denominator is 8. 3/8's denominator stays the same.

4. Multiply 1/2's numerator by 4. You get 4/8 instead of 1/2.

5. Add 4/8 and 3/8.

6. The answer is 7/8