How to Multiply Fractions
Question
Multiply the fractions below.
Step-by-Step:
1
Multiply the top numbers (called the numerators) of the fractions together.
2 × 1 = 2
2
Multiply the bottom numbers (called the denominators) of the fractions together.
5 × 3 = 15
3
The answer from Step 1 is the numerator of our answer. The answer from Step 2 is the denominator of our answer.
4
Simplify the fraction if possible. (The fraction in our example is already as simple as possible).
Answer:
2/5 (two-fifths) multiplied by 1/3 (one-third) equals 2/15 (two-fifteenths).
2/5 × 1/3 = 2/15
Multiplying Fractions Is Easy
Multiply the tops together, multiply the bottoms together. Then simplify (if possible):
Top Tip
A Half of a Third
When you see the word "of" following a fraction, it means multiply or ×. Half of a third means:
It's Easier Than Adding and Subtracting
Before you can add or subtract fractions, you have to make sure the bottom numbers (called the denominators) of both fractions are the same. When you are multiplying fractions, it doesn't matter if the denominators aren't the same. Just multiply the top numbers, multiply the bottom numbers, then simplify.
This page was written by Stephen Clarke.
You might also like...
Help Us Improve Mathematics Monster
- Do you disagree with something on this page?
- Did you spot a typo?
Find Us Quicker!
- When using a search engine (e.g., Google, Bing), you will find Mathematics Monster quicker if you add #mm to your search term.
Share This Page
If you like Mathematics Monster (or this page in particular), please link to it or share it with others.
If you do, please tell us. It helps us a lot!
Create a QR Code
Use our handy widget to create a QR code for this page...or any page.
