Practice the prerequisite skills. To add and subtract fractions, you must know how to find a common denominator. To multiply mixed numbers, you must be able to change them into improper fractions first. Don’t attempt to move to the next step until you are confident.
Use visual representations and math manipulatives. You must be able to picture fractions in your mind before you can solve fraction problems. Draw pictures and work through problems with hands-on materials such as fraction bars.
Ask a peer for help. If you know someone who is good at math, approach him for assistance. Don’t be embarrassed; everyone has strengths and weaknesses in different areas. Teachers often conduct help sessions before or after school, so try to take advantage of these opportunities.
Use a free online tutoring program such as Khan Academy’s math tutorials. Watch the videos for explanations of individual math concepts that you don’t understand. Complete the accompanying practice exercises. When you learn a new concept at school, use the online tutoring program to reinforce the skill.
Hire a professional tutor. Although the cost may be expensive, a professional tutor, such as a licensed teacher, benefits you in the long run. A professional tutor has the knowledge to break down concepts, and focus specifically on the math skills that cause you difficulty.
Redo any problems you missed. When you get a wrong answer, don't dismiss it. Dissect the problem, and keep reworking it until you get it right. Solicit help as necessary until you understand your mistakes so you don't repeat them.
Solve the odd-numbered problems in a math book. Teachers assign even numbers because math books are typically designed with answers in the back of the book to the odd numbers. Work through several of the odd-numbered problems to ensure that you are solving them correctly before moving on to the even-numbered problems.
Practice and check the answers to fraction problems with an online fraction calculator. Enter the numbers you want to add, subtract, multiply or divide into the calculator. Work out the problem, and then check your solution.