How to Solve Fraction Equations on a Calculator
Fractions can be difficult to solve by hand; many people turn to a calculator for help. A scientific calculator allows for easier work with fractions because it lets you use parentheses and type an entire equation at once.But standard calculators can also be helpful in solving fraction equations.
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Instructions
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Using a Scientific Calculator
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1
Identify the numerator (top number) and denominator (bottom number) of any fraction in the equation. For example, in the fraction "four-fifths," or 4/5, four is the numerator and five is the denominator.
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2
Use a division sign to separate the numerator and denominator and parentheses to contain the fraction. For example, four-fifths becomes (4/5).
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3
Type the entire equation into the calculator, entering all fractions in the same way. The equation four-fifths plus seven would be entered (4/5) + 7.
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4
Press the Enter key for the solution. In the example, the answer is 7.8.
Using a Standard Calculator
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5
Convert all fractions to decimals by dividing the numerator by the denominator. Using the example equation: four-fifths = 4/5 = 0.8.
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6
Rewrite the equation on paper using decimal values instead of fractions. Four-fifths plus seven becomes 0.8 + 7.
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7
Enter the equation with decimals into the calculator.
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8
Press the equal sign "=" for the solution; again, 7.8.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that parentheses tell the calculator what operations to do first.
If you have a mixed fraction, such as 3 1/2, enter the fraction as (3 + 1/2). Because the order of operations tells the calculator to divide and then add, no additional parentheses are needed around the 1/2.
