What is 3/5 + 1/3?

Calculate 3/5 + 1/3 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to add fractions and understand the process.

+
Answer: 3/5 + 1/3 = \frac{14}{15}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1 Identify the Fractions

We need to add two fractions: 3/5 and 1/3

To add fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).

\frac{3}{5} + \frac{1}{3} = ?
Step 2 Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD)

The denominators are different (5 and 3), so we need to find a common denominator.

The LCD is the smallest number that both 5 and 3 divide into evenly.

LCD = 5 × 3 = 15

\text{LCD}(5, 3) = 15
Step 3 Convert First Fraction

Multiply 3/5 to get denominator of 15:

Multiply both top and bottom by 3

\frac{3}{5} = \frac{3 \times 3}{5 \times 3} = \frac{9}{15}
Step 4 Convert Second Fraction

Multiply 1/3 to get denominator of 15:

Multiply both top and bottom by 5

\frac{1}{3} = \frac{1 \times 5}{3 \times 5} = \frac{5}{15}
Step 5 Add the Fractions

Now both fractions have the same denominator (15).

Add the numerators: 9 + 5 = 14

\frac{9}{15} + \frac{5}{15} = \frac{9 + 5}{15} = \frac{14}{15}