Solve Fraction Expression: (4/4 × 1/2) + 3/8 Step by Step

Order of operations (PEMDAS) tells us multiplication comes before addition. Even though addition appears last in the expression, we must multiply first, then add the result to the other fraction.

Any fraction where the numerator equals the denominator equals 1! Think of it as 4 ÷ 4 = 1. This is a key fraction rule that simplifies many problems.

To add fractions, they need the same denominator. Since $\frac{3}{8}$ has denominator 8, we convert $\frac{1}{2}$ by multiplying top and bottom by 4: $\frac{1 \times 4}{2 \times 4} = \frac{4}{8}$.

You could use 16, 24, etc., but 8 is the least common denominator (LCD). Using the LCD keeps numbers smaller and makes calculations easier!

Work backwards! Start with $\frac{7}{8}$, convert to $\frac{4}{8} + \frac{3}{8}$, then check that $\frac{4}{8} = \frac{1}{2}$ and $1 \times \frac{1}{2} = \frac{1}{2}$.