Solve the Fraction Addition: 3/8 + 1/4 Step-by-Step

Fraction Addition with Unlike Denominators

38+14= \frac{3}{8}+\frac{1}{4}=

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Solve
00:03 We want to find the least common denominator
00:06 Multiply by 2 to find the common denominator
00:09 Remember to multiply both numerator and denominator
00:15 Calculate the multiplications
00:22 Add under the common denominator
00:25 Calculate the numerator
00:28 And this is the solution to the question

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

38+14= \frac{3}{8}+\frac{1}{4}=

2

Step-by-step solution

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

  • Step 1: Identify the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators 8 and 4.
  • Step 2: Convert 14\frac{1}{4} to a fraction with the denominator of 8.
  • Step 3: Add the fractions 38\frac{3}{8} and 28\frac{2}{8}.

Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: The LCM of 8 and 4 is 8, so this will be the common denominator.
Step 2: Transform 14\frac{1}{4} into a fraction with the denominator of 8. Multiply the numerator and the denominator by 2 to get 28\frac{2}{8}.
Step 3: Now, add the fractions with the same denominator: 38+28=58\frac{3}{8} + \frac{2}{8} = \frac{5}{8}.

Therefore, the sum of 38\frac{3}{8} and 14\frac{1}{4} is 58\frac{5}{8}, which matches choice 4.

3

Final Answer

58 \frac{5}{8}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Common Denominator: Find LCM of denominators to add fractions
  • Conversion: Change 14 \frac{1}{4} to 28 \frac{2}{8} by multiplying by 2
  • Check: Verify 58 \frac{5}{8} is in simplest form ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding numerators and denominators separately
    Don't add 38+14 \frac{3}{8} + \frac{1}{4} as 412 \frac{4}{12} by adding 3+1 and 8+4! This completely ignores fraction rules and gives meaningless results. Always find a common denominator first, then add only the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Complete the following exercise:

\( \frac{3}{4}:\frac{5}{6}=\text{?} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just add the numerators and denominators?

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Fractions represent parts of a whole. Adding 38 \frac{3}{8} (3 eighths) to 14 \frac{1}{4} (1 fourth) means you need the same-sized pieces first!

How do I find the least common multiple of 8 and 4?

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List multiples of each: 8 = 8, 16, 24... and 4 = 4, 8, 12... The smallest number in both lists is 8, so that's your LCM.

What if the denominators are both large numbers?

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Use the same process! Find the LCM of the denominators, convert both fractions, then add. The steps are identical regardless of size.

Do I always need to simplify my answer?

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Yes, always simplify! Check if the numerator and denominator share any common factors. In this case, 58 \frac{5}{8} is already in lowest terms.

What if my answer is an improper fraction?

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That's fine! You can leave it as an improper fraction or convert to a mixed number. Both forms are correct - just choose what the problem asks for.

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