Calculators

Math

Fractions

Calculator Use

Compare fractions to find which fraction is larger and which is smaller. You can also use this calculator to compare mixed numbers, compare decimals, compare integers and compare improper fractions.

How to Compare Fractions

To compare fractions with unlike denominators convert them to equivalent fractions with the same denominator.

1. If you have mixed numbers convert them to improper fractions
2. Find the lowest common denominator (LCD) for the fractions
3. Convert each fraction into its equivalent with the LCD in the denominator
4. Compare fractions: If denominators are the same you can compare the numerators. The fraction with the bigger numerator is the larger fraction.

Example:

Compare 5/6 and 3/8.

Find the LCD: The multiples of 6 are 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, etc. The multiples of 8 are 8, 16, 24, 32, etc. The lowest common multiple is 24 so we use that as the lowest common denominator.

Convert each fraction to its equivalent fraction using the LCD.
For 5/6, multiply numerator and denominator by 4 to have LCD = 24 in the denominator.

For 3/8, multiply numerator and denominator by 3 to have LCD = 24 in the denominator.

Compare the fractions. Because there are like denominators you can compare the numerators. 20 is larger than 9, so:

For additional fraction help see our Fractions Calculator, Simplify Fractions Calculator and Mixed Numbers Calculator.

References: Help with Fractions Finding The Least Common Denominator.