How to Rank Fractions From Smallest to Largest

A calculator can be an effective tool for ranking fractions.

A fraction can be described as a number that represents a certain amount of a whole unit and is composed of a numerator and denominator. The denominator is the bottom number and describes how many parts make up the whole unit, while the numerator is the top number and states how many parts of the whole unit exist. Ranking fractions from smallest to largest requires comparing them, which may seem difficult when the denominators do not match. Because a fraction represents part of a whole unit, it can be converted to a decimal that can be compared with other fractions and ranked accordingly.

Things You'll Need

• Calculator (optional)

Instructions

1. Change the first fraction to a decimal by dividing the numerator by the denominator. If desired, use a calculator. This will ensure there are no mistakes and will allow more accurate ranking of the fractions.

2. Compare the resulting decimals and rank them in order from smallest to largest.

3. Rank the corresponding fractions in ascending order, with the fraction matching the smallest decimal listed first and the fraction with the largest resulting decimal listed last.

Tips & Warnings

• If it proves difficult to rank the decimals in order from smallest to largest, each decimal may be multiplied by 100, resulting in more manageable numbers. This has no effect on the outcome of the ranking.

• Do not confuse which decimal comes from which fraction, this will result in an improper ranking outcome.

References

• NDT Resource Center: Fractions
• Syracuse University: Conversions Between Decimals and Fractions