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How to Subtract Whole Numbers & Fractions Together

Subtracting whole numbers and fractions is an important basic math skill that is taught in the fourth or fifth grade, depending on the school curriculum. While the process is simple and easy to follow, the student will need to practice to fully develop the skill. Also, the process is more accessible when written. Students are less likely to make mistakes when they write out the problems and the steps to solve them.

Instructions

    • 1

      Write the subtraction expression. Use the example of 4 - 3/4 in the steps.

    • 2

      Convert the whole number into a fraction. To do this, you will need to write the whole number as the numerator and one as the denominator. For example, 4/1 - 3/4

    • 3

      Find the least common denominator (LCD) of the two denominators, one and the other number. In the example, the LCD is 4.

    • 4

      Multiply the numerator and denominator by the LCD. Now both fractions share the same denominator, and you are ready to subtract. In this example, 16/4 - 3/4.

    • 5

      Subtract the two numerators and write the answer as a numerator. 16 - 3 = 13

    • 6

      Write the denominator under the subtraction answer. You will have your answer, which in the example: 13/4.

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