What Are Fractions?

Fractions are a way of showing parts of a whole.
For example, if you cut a pizza into 4 equal slices and eat 1,
you’ve eaten 1/4 of the pizza.

Why Fractions Matter in Exams

In 7+, 8+, and 11+ maths exams, fractions appear often.
They test your number sense, problem-solving, and
logical thinking. Fractions link closely with division and decimals,
so mastering them unlocks lots of maths skills.

Main Fraction Skills

• Understanding parts: The top number (numerator) shows how many parts you have,
  the bottom number (denominator) shows how many equal parts make the whole.
• Simplifying: Make fractions smaller but keep the value the same (e.g., 2/4 = 1/2).
• Equivalent fractions: Different fractions can mean the same thing (e.g., 1/2 = 2/4 = 4/8).
• Adding & subtracting: Use the same denominator first (e.g., 1/4 + 2/4 = 3/4).

Examples

Level 1 (Beginner): What is 1/2 of 10?
Answer: 5.

Level 2 (Intermediate): Simplify 6/8.
Answer: 3/4 (divide top and bottom by 2).

Level 3 (Advanced): Add 2/3 + 1/6.
Answer: 5/6 (make common denominator: 4/6 + 1/6).

Troubleshooting

Common mistake: Adding denominators together (e.g., 1/4 + 1/4 = 2/8 ❌).
Fix: Keep the denominator the same and only add the top numbers.

Also Known As

Parts of a whole, ratios, slices of something.

Advanced Interpretations

Fractions often link to word problems.
Example: “A jug holds 2 litres. Sam drinks 3/4 of it. How much is left?”
First find 3/4 of 2 = 1.5 litres. Then subtract to get 0.5 litres left.

Memory Tips

Tip: Use real food like pizza, cake, or chocolate bars to practise fractions at home.

“Fractions turn scary numbers into tasty slices – once you see the pattern, they’re easy as pie!”