1. Make sure the denominators (the bottom numbers) of the fractions are the same. If they are already the same, you can skip this step. If not, find a common denominator by finding the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators.
2. Once you have the same denominators, you can add or subtract the numerators (the top numbers) of the fractions.
For addition: Add the numerators together while keeping the same denominator.
For subtraction: Subtract the numerators while keeping the same denominator.
3. Simplify the resulting fraction, if possible, by reducing it to its simplest form. To do this, find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator and divide both by it.
Example:
Let's say we want to add 1/4 and 3/8:
Step 1: The denominators are 4 and 8, and the LCM is 8.
Step 2: Rewrite the fractions with the common denominator:
1/4 = 2/8 (multiply numerator and denominator of 1/4 by 2)
13/8 = 3/8 (no change needed)
Add the numerators: 2/8 + 3/8 = 5/8
Step 3: The fraction 5/8 is already in simplest form, so we don't need to simplify further.
Therefore, 1/4 + 3/8 = 5/8.
Remember, when subtracting rational numbers, the steps are the same except you subtract the numerators instead of adding them.