Basics Of Fractions

When we deal with fractions, please realize that every fraction has a numerator and a denominator.

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1. How many slices are \(\frac{1}{3}\) of a 12-slice pizza?
A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 1 of 2

2. Which is \(\frac{2}{3}\) of an hour?
A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 2 of 2


 

Next lesson:

A fraction represents a part of a whole. It’s a way of expressing numbers that are not whole numbers. Fractions are made up of two integers, one on top of the other, separated by a line. Sometimes, you might see fractions written with a slash, like this: 1/2.

Parts of a Fraction

Numerator: The top number of a fraction is called the numerator. It tells you the number of parts you have.
Denominator: The bottom number is known as the denominator. It indicates the total number of equal parts the whole is divided into.

For example, in the fraction \(\frac{3}{4}\), 3 is the numerator and 4 is the denominator. This fraction means that you have 3 parts out of a total of 4 equal parts.

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Writing Fractions

With a Line: \(\frac{3}{4}\)
With a Slash: numerator/denominator → 3/4

Mixed Numbers

Sometimes, fractions are accompanied by whole numbers. These are called mixed numbers. A mixed number has a whole number part and a fraction part.

For example, 2 \(\frac{1}{2}\) is a mixed number. It includes the whole number 2 and the fraction \(\frac{1}{2}\).

Understanding Mixed Numbers

  • Whole Number: Represents complete wholes.

  • Fraction Part: Represents a part of a whole.

In 2 \(\frac{1}{2}\), the whole number 2 means two complete wholes, and \(\frac{1}{2}\) indicates half of another whole.

Visualizing Fractions

It’s often helpful to visualize fractions. Think of a pizza cut into equal slices. If a pizza is cut into 4 slices and you have 3 of them, you have \(\frac{3}{4}\) of the pizza.

Practice

  • Identify the numerator and denominator in different fractions.

  • Convert whole numbers to fractions (e.g., 3 as \(\frac{3}{1}\)).

  • Write mixed numbers and understand their meaning.

Conclusion

Fractions are a fundamental part of math that helps us understand and work with parts of a whole. By grasping these basics – numerators, denominators, and mixed numbers – you’re taking the first step in becoming comfortable with fractions.

 

Last Updated on September 13, 2026.