About

When moving beyond simple pairs of fractions, students often struggle with the sequential application of operations. This tool is specifically designed for 3-term equations, bridging the gap between basic arithmetic and complex algebra. It helps users visualize how the combination of two fractions results in a new value that interacts with the third.

Unlike the 5-fraction version, this interface highlights the specific interaction between terms, making it ideal for checking homework or learning the mechanics of finding common denominators on a manageable scale.

Formulas

The calculation sequence depends on the operators chosen. Multiplication/Division takes precedence.

Scenario A (All + or -):

LCD = LCM(d₁, d₂, d₃)

Scenario B (Mixed):

A + B × C → Solve (B × C) first, then add A

Reference Data

Term 1	Op	Term 2	Op	Term 3	Logic
12	+	13	−	16	Find LCD(2,3) → 56 − 16
34	×	23	+	12	Multiply first: 612 + 12

Frequently Asked Questions

This tool follows standard Order of Operations (PEMDAS). Multiplication and Division are always calculated before Addition and Subtraction, regardless of their position in the row.

Yes, the solution steps explicitly state the Least Common Denominator found for any addition or subtraction step.

In multiplication, if a numerator in one fraction shares a factor with a denominator in another (e.g. 2/3 * 3/5), they "cancel out" to 1, simplifying the math to 2/5. This tool performs this simplification automatically.

The input accepts improper fractions (top-heavy). Convert your mixed numbers to improper fractions (e.g., 1 1/2 -> 3/2) before entering them.