How do you add fractions with the same denominator?

How do you add fractions with the same denominator?

• A. Keep the denominator the same and add the numerators.
• B. Keep the numerator the same and add the denominators.
• C. Multiply numerators and denominators.
• D. Subtract numerators.

Answer: (A)

When fractions have the same denominator, you’re combining parts of the same size. The bottom number shows how many equal pieces make up a whole, so you keep that size and add how many pieces you have by adding the numerators. For example, 3/8 plus 2/8 equals 5/8, because you have five eighths in total. If the sum of the numerators reaches or exceeds the denominator, you can interpret or simplify further, but the fundamental rule is: same denominator, add the numerators, keep the denominator. If the denominators were different, you’d need to find a common denominator first.

When fractions have the same denominator, you’re combining parts of the same size. The bottom number shows how many equal pieces make up a whole, so you keep that size and add how many pieces you have by adding the numerators. For example, 3/8 plus 2/8 equals 5/8, because you have five eighths in total. If the sum of the numerators reaches or exceeds the denominator, you can interpret or simplify further, but the fundamental rule is: same denominator, add the numerators, keep the denominator. If the denominators were different, you’d need to find a common denominator first.