Solve the Addition: 1/2 + 1/2 Step-by-Step

Q: Why don't I add the denominators too?

The denominator tells us what size pieces we're working with. Since both fractions are halves, we're adding pieces of the same size, so the denominator stays the same!

Q: How do I know when to simplify my answer?

Always check if your answer can be simplified! If the numerator and denominator have a common factor, divide both by that number. $ \frac{2}{2} = 1 $ because 2÷2=1.

Q: Can I use this method for any fractions?

This same denominator method only works when the bottom numbers are identical. If denominators are different, you'll need to find a common denominator first.

Q: How can I visualize this problem?

Think of two pizza slices! Each $ \frac{1}{2} $ is half a pizza. When you put half + half together, you get one whole pizza!

Fraction Addition with Same Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

$\frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{2}=\text{?}$

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations

00:06 Let's solve this step by step.

00:09 First, divide the rectangle into two parts.

00:13 Now, color each part for each fraction.

00:16 Then, combine the colored parts into the numerator.

00:22 And that's how we solve the problem!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

$\frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{2}=\text{?}$

Step-by-step solution

To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:

Step 1: Identify that both fractions have the same denominator.
Step 2: Add their numerators.
Step 3: Write the result as a single fraction and simplify if needed.

Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: Both fractions are $\frac{1}{2}$ , which means they have the same denominator, 2.
Step 2: Add the numerators: $1 + 1 = 2$ .
Step 3: Write the result as $\frac{2}{2}$ . Simplifying $\frac{2}{2}$ gives us $1$ .

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 1.

Final Answer

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic

Rule: When denominators are same, add only the numerators
Technique: Add numerators: 1 + 1 = 2, keep denominator 2
Check: Simplify $\frac{2}{2} = 1$ by dividing 2÷2 ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors

Adding both numerators and denominators
Don't add denominators like 1/2 + 1/2 = 2/4 = wrong answer! This creates an incorrect fraction that doesn't represent the actual sum. Always keep the same denominator and add only the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

$$ $\frac{4}{5}+\frac{1}{5}=$

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why don't I add the denominators too?

The denominator tells us what size pieces we're working with. Since both fractions are halves, we're adding pieces of the same size, so the denominator stays the same!

How do I know when to simplify my answer?

Always check if your answer can be simplified! If the numerator and denominator have a common factor, divide both by that number. $\frac{2}{2} = 1$ because 2÷2=1.

What if I get an answer bigger than 1?

That's totally normal! When you add fractions, you can get answers greater than 1. Just make sure to simplify or convert to a mixed number if needed.

Can I use this method for any fractions?

This same denominator method only works when the bottom numbers are identical. If denominators are different, you'll need to find a common denominator first.

How can I visualize this problem?

Think of two pizza slices! Each $\frac{1}{2}$ is half a pizza. When you put half + half together, you get one whole pizza!

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