How to Add Fractions With Negative Numbers

Fractions, integers, negative numbers, can be confusing. Adding fractions with negative numbers is not as difficult as it sounds. If you can add integers with negative numbers, or if you can add simple fractions, you can also add fractions with negative numbers. One you start adding, it's downhill from there.

Instructions

1. 

   Examine your equation to be solved. In this case, the denominators, the numbers on the bottom, are the same. One of the numbers however is a mixed number.

2. 

   Prepare the fractions to be added. Since the denominators in this problem are the same, you don’t have to change them. You do however, need to change the mixed number into an improper fraction. To do this, multiply the denominator by the whole number and add the numerator. This gives you a new numerator. Keep the same denominator.

3. 

   Look at the two numerators only ignoring the denominator. Add them as you would any integers. In this case, you are adding -1 + 7. If you were to use a number line, you would begin at -1 and count seven spaces to the right landing on the number six. So you can see that -1 + 7 = 6. This is your new numerator.

4. 

   Place your new numerator over your denominator. Do not add your denominators. You keep the same denominator that both numbers shared. This makes your new fraction in this case 6/3.

5. Rewrite your answer in the simplest terms. If you have an improper fraction or a number that can be reduced, you need to rewrite your answer as a mixed number or reduced fraction. In this case, 6/3 can be reduced to 2/1 which is the same as 2. So -1/3 + 2 1/3 = 2

Tips & Warnings

• Do not skip steps or you may make an error.