Solve: 4/6 - 1/3 - 1/12 Fraction Subtraction Problem

Look for the smallest number that all three denominators divide into evenly. Since 12 ÷ 6 = 2, 12 ÷ 3 = 4, and 12 ÷ 12 = 1, the LCD is 12.

To get denominator 12, you need to multiply 6 by 2. When you multiply the denominator by 2, you must also multiply the numerator by 2 to keep the fraction equivalent: $\frac{4 \times 2}{6 \times 2} = \frac{8}{12}$.

Yes! Simplifying first can make the problem easier. $\frac{4}{6} = \frac{2}{3}$, so the problem becomes $\frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{3} - \frac{1}{12}$, which is simpler to work with.

Any common multiple will work, but using the LCD makes calculations easier. If you use 24 instead of 12, you'll get the same final answer, just with bigger numbers along the way.

Always check if the numerator and denominator share any common factors. Since 3 and 12 both divide by 3: $\frac{3}{12} = \frac{1}{4}$.