Examine the fraction and see if the exponent is on the numerator (top number) or the denominator (bottom number). If it is on the numerator, simply calculate the value with the exponent and divide it by the denominator. For example, if the problem reads (2^2) / 2 the answer is 4 / 2, which simplified equals 2.
Find the reciprocal of the fraction and change the sign from positive to negative if the exponent is on the denominator. The reciprocal is found by switching the top number for the bottom number. For example, if the fraction is 1/(3^2) the result is 3^-2.
Double-check your work to make sure you didn't make any simple mistakes. In addition, make sure you simplify your answer by reducing it with division when possible.