What is 5/8 + 1/4?

Calculate 5/8 + 1/4 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to add fractions and understand the process.

+
Answer: 5/8 + 1/4 = \frac{7}{8}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1 Identify the Fractions

We need to add two fractions: 5/8 and 1/4

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

\frac{5}{8} + \frac{1}{4} = ?
Step 2 Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD)

The denominators are different (8 and 4), so we need to find a common denominator.

The LCD is the smallest number that both 8 and 4 divide into evenly.

Since GCD(8, 4) = 4, we calculate LCD = (8 × 4) ÷ 4 = 8

\text{LCD}(8, 4) = 8
Step 3 Convert First Fraction

Multiply 5/8 to get denominator of 8:

Multiply both top and bottom by 1

\frac{5}{8} = \frac{5 \times 1}{8 \times 1} = \frac{5}{8}
Step 4 Convert Second Fraction

Multiply 1/4 to get denominator of 8:

Multiply both top and bottom by 2

\frac{1}{4} = \frac{1 \times 2}{4 \times 2} = \frac{2}{8}
Step 5 Add the Fractions

Now both fractions have the same denominator (8).

Add the numerators: 5 + 2 = 7

\frac{5}{8} + \frac{2}{8} = \frac{5 + 2}{8} = \frac{7}{8}