Fractions with the same denominator are subtracted by placing the difference of the numerators over the common denominator. After subtracting, write the fraction in simplest form (if necessary).
Fractions with Different Denominators
Find the least common denominator (LCD) of the fractions.
Example
The least common multiple of 10 and 20 is 20, then
and
The lowest common denominator (LCD) of the fractions is 20, then
Simplify the difference (not needed in this example)
Mixed Numbers
To subtract mixed numbers without borrowing, subtract the fractional parts and then subtract the whole numbers.
Subtraction of mixed numbers may involve borrowing
Example
Find 5 − 1 2/3.
Rename 5 as 4 + 1, and then rename 1 using 3 as a denominator (Any fraction with the same numerator and denominator is equivalent to 1)
Subtract the fractions
Subtract the whole numbers
4 − 1 = 3
The result is
Example
First, rename the fractions so they have common denominators:
Since we can't take 12 from 5, we clearly need to borrow. Rename 6 as 5 + 1, then rename 1 as 15/15. This gives us
Now we're ready to subtract.