How to Do Fractions on a Calculator: 6 Step-by-Step Methods

PDF download Download Article
Quick ways to type fractions on online and offline calculators
PDF download Download Article

Calculating numbers that contain fractions can be tricky, even when you’re using a calculator. You may be able to write a fraction on a calculator using the fraction button. If your calculator doesn’t have this feature, use an online calculator if you’re allowed to do so. As another option, you might turn the fraction into a decimal or turn the fraction into a percent. Read on to learn easy ways to enter fractions into a calculator.

Putting Fractions into a Calculator

  • If you have a scientific calculator , you may have to enter math mode to access the fraction function. You can usually select it from the Mode menu.
  • On a TI-83 Plus or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator, press the ALPHA key, then Y= , then press Enter to display the fraction template.
  • You can also use any calculator, even the one on your phone, to convert a fraction to a decimal or a percent.
Method 1
Method 1 of 6:

Using a Fraction Button on a Scientific Calculator

PDF download Download Article
  1. Some scientific calculators require you to enter a special "math mode" to use the fraction button. Press the mode button to open a menu, then select Math from the list to start math mode. Check that your screen says “math” to make sure you’re in math mode. [1]
    • Your calculator may not have a math mode.
    • Some scientific calculators will have a fraction button even without a math mode.
  2. Look for a button that looks like a fraction, e.g., a/b , x/y , or b/c . Sometimes, you'll see a black box over a white box. Pressing this button should open the fraction feature on your calculator. [2]
    • When the fraction feature is on, you should see a fraction template on your calculator screen. This will look like two blank boxes, one on top of the other. There will be a horizontal line separating the boxes. [3]
    • On some calculators, the boxes are separated by an “L” that acts as the horizontal line.
    Advertisement
  3. Your cursor will start in the top box of the fraction. Use the keypad on the calculator to type in the numerator, which is the top number in the fraction. [4]
    • For instance, let’s say your fraction is 4/5. You’d type “4” into the top box.
    • If you're entering a mixed number , you'll need to switch to the mixed number template. On most scientific calculators, you'll do this by pressing the shift button before the fraction button. This will insert a third box before the fraction template where you can enter the integer in your fraction. The cursor will start in this box, so enter the integer before you type in the fraction.
  4. You will find the down arrow in the set of arrow keys on your calculator’s keypad. Pressing this key moves your cursor to the lower box in the template. [5]
    • If your template uses the “L” to separate the boxes, you may need to hit the arrow that points to the right to move the cursor. Try that arrow if the down arrow doesn’t work.
  5. Use your keypad to type the denominator, which is the lower number of the fraction. Then, check that your fraction looks right on the calculator screen. [6]
    • For instance, if the fraction is 4/5, type “5” into the lower box. Then, check that your fraction accurately depicts 4/5.
    6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 6:

Using a TI-83 Plus or TI-84 Plus Calculator

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Make sure your calculator is up to date. To be able to put fractions into your calculator, you will need version 2.55 or later of the operating system. Here's how to check: [7]
    • Press the 2nd key on the keypad.
    • Press + .
    • Press Enter to select "About."
    • Make sure the version below your calculator model is 2.55 or later.
    • If you have an older version, you can update your calculator with the TI-Connect software on your computer. [8]
  2. 2
    Press the ALPHA key. An A will appear on the screen. [9]
  3. 3
    Press the Y= key. This opens the FRAC menu.
  4. 4
    Press ↵ Enter to select n/d. It should already be selected at the top of the list. This creates a template for you to enter your fraction. [10]
    • n/d stands for Numerator/Denominator.
  5. 5
    Type the numerator. This is the part that goes above the line in the fraction.
  6. 6
    Press the down-arrow, then type the denominator. This is the number at the bottom of the fraction.
  7. 7
    Press the right arrow. This completes the entry of the first fraction so you can enter the next part of the equation.
    • To enter a mixed number, press ALPHA , then Y= , then press the down arrow to select the second menu option (Un/d). Press ENTER , and you can type the integer and fraction into the template.
  8. 8
    Enter the operation you want to perform. For example, if you want to multiply this fraction by another, press the X button. [11]
  9. 9
    Enter another fraction. If the next item in your equation is another fraction, you will need to bring the template back up. To do this, press ALPHA , followed by Y= , then ENTER . You can then enter the numerator, press the down arrow again, and enter the denominator.
  10. 10
    Finish your equation. If you're ready to find the answer, press the right arrow to end the fraction, then press ENTER to display the answer. The answer will display as a fraction. [12]
    11. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 6:

Using Fraction Calculator Plus

PDF download Download Article
  1. Fraction Calculator Plus is an app specifically made for calculating fractions on mobile devices. It is a paid app, but you can test it out with a free trial. Download it from the Google Play Store on Android devices or the App Store on iPhone and iPad.
  2. It has an icon that resembles a blue calculator screen with two fractions being added.
  3. If your equation has any whole numbers, use the large number buttons on the left to enter a whole number. These are the large numbers that go in front of a fraction.
  4. It's the small number pad above the line on the right. The numerator is the number that goes on top in a fraction.
  5. This is the number that goes on the bottom in a fraction. Use the small number pad below the line on the right to enter the denominator of a fraction.
  6. Use the math symbol buttons at the bottom to enter a "+," "-," "×," or ",÷" to your math equation.
  7. When you are finished entering your equation, tap the "=" sign in the lower-right corner to view the answer. It will be displayed as a fraction. You can view your answer in decimal format in the upper-right corner.
    • Tap the icon that resembles a check mark next to some lines next to your answer to view the steps to solve the equation.
    8. Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 6:

Using an Online Calculator

PDF download Download Article
  1. Go to Calculator.net's Fraction calculator . You can access this free fraction calculator on your phone, tablet, or computer at any time. This website has a variety of calculators used to solve fractions.
  2. The web page has several different calculators you can use. If you are solving simple fractions with no whole numbers, use the first calculator at the top labeled "Fraction Calculator". If you need to solve equations that involve whole numbers and fractions, use the "Mixed Numbers Calculator."
  3. If you are using the basic fractions calculator at the top, enter the numerators (top numbers) for your fractions in the top boxes. Then enter the denominators (bottom numbers) in the boxes at the bottom. If you are using the Mixed Numbers calculator, write your numbers in each box with the whole number in front, followed by a space at the beginning. Then, enter the numerator followed by a slash and then enter the denominator (e.g, "1 3/4").
  4. Use the drop-down in between the two numbers to select a math function. You can select "+" to add, "-" to subtract, "×" to multiply, or "/" to divide.
  5. It's the green button below the number boxes. This solves your equation and shows all the steps.
  6. The answer is displayed at the end of the equation in fraction format at the top. It is also displayed in decimal format just below that. Scroll down further to see the steps to solve the equation.
    • If you need an explanation of each step, click Show further explanation below the steps.
    7. Advertisement
Method 5
Method 5 of 6:

Turning a Fraction into a Decimal

PDF download Download Article
  1. The numerator is the top number in the fraction. Type the numerator into your calculator, then push the divide button. Next, type the bottom number into the calculator, which is the denominator. Hit the equal sign to get your decimal. [13]
    • For instance, divide 3/4 = .75.
    • Math tutor David Jia explains that every time you see a fraction, it's a form of division. "Divisions and fractions are the same thing," he says, "and so are ratios and proportions." [14]
  2. Mixed numbers include both an integer and a fraction. The integer will stay the same when you turn the fraction into a decimal. Write the integer in your answer box, then divide the numerator in the fraction by the denominator. Put a decimal point after the integer and write the decimal number you got when you divided the fraction.
    • As an example, let’s say your mixed number is 2-2/3. You’d divide 2/3 = .67. Write 2.67 for your decimal number.

    Variation: You can also write a mixed number as an improper fraction to easily convert it to a decimal. For instance, let’s say your mixed number is 1-3/4. Start by multiplying 1 x 4 = 4, as the integer represents a simplified fraction. Then, add 4 + 3 = 7. Your improper fraction would be 7/4. You could then divide 7/4 = 1.75 to get your decimal point.

  3. If you’re adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing two fractions, convert each of them to a decimal separately using division. Then, use the decimal numbers to calculate an answer. [15]
    • As an example, let’s say you wanted to add 1/2 + 3/5. You’d first divide 1/2 = .50. Then, divide 3/5 = .60. Finally, add .50 + .60 = 1.10.
    4. Advertisement
Method 6
Method 6 of 6:

Writing a Fraction as a Percent

PDF download Download Article
  1. Jia explains that you can also convert a fraction to a percentage after first converting it to a decimal. "37% is the same thing as 37/100," he says, "which is also the same as 0.37." [16] First, convert to a decimal by treating the fraction bar as a division sign. Type the top number into your calculator, press the Division button, then the bottom number, then press the Equal button. This will give you a decimal number.
    • For instance, divide 1/4 = .25.
  2. A percent is taken out of 100, so multiplying the decimal by 100 turns it into a percent. Type your decimal into the calculator, then hit the multiply button. Enter 100, then click the equal sign. [17]
    • As an example, multiply .25 x 100 = 25.
    • You can also just move the decimal point over two numbers to the right.
  3. This will show people that the number is a percentage out of 100. [18]
    • For example, you’d write 25%.
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Why do you divide fractions?
    David Jia
    Math Tutor
    David Jia is an Academic Tutor and the Founder of LA Math Tutoring, a private tutoring company based in Los Angeles, California. With over 10 years of teaching experience, David works with students of all ages and grades in various subjects, as well as college admissions counseling and test preparation for the SAT, ACT, ISEE, and more. After attaining a perfect 800 math score and a 690 English score on the SAT, David was awarded the Dickinson Scholarship from the University of Miami, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Additionally, David has worked as an instructor for online videos for textbook companies such as Larson Texts, Big Ideas Learning, and Big Ideas Math.
    David Jia
    Math Tutor
    Expert Answer
    Fractions are just a form of division—it's the same thing. 3/4 is the same thing as 3 divided by 4.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 12
  • Question
    What is 14 2/3 + 8 5/7 as a mixed number?
    Community Answer
    (14 2/3) + (8 5/7) = (44/3) + (61/7). The common denominator is (3)(7) = 21. So the fractions become (308/21) + (183/21) = 491/21 = 23 8/21.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 4 Helpful 2
  • Question
    How do you use the fraction symbol on a calculator app?
    I_l1ke_gam3s
    Community Answer
    On most calculators you aren't allowed to convert to a fraction. You first have to convert to a decimal and then know how to convert a decimal to a fraction.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 4 Helpful 1
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      • Always write a fraction in the lowest term when you’re recording an answer. For instance, reduce 2/4 to 1/2. Similarly, reduce 5/4 to 1-1/4.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Many calculator apps for Android, iPhone, and iPad allow you to enter fractions, but the answer will appear as a decimal.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Turn Off a Normal School Calculator: Step-by-Step Guide
      How to
      Use a Calculator
      How to
      Operate a Scientific Calculator: Basic Functions Explained
      The Easiest Way to Turn Off a CT-512 Calculator
      How to
      Find Standard Deviation on the TI–84
      How to
      Use an Android Calculator: Features, Modes & Tips
      How to
      Reset the TI–84 Calculator
      How to
      Install Games on a Texas Instruments or Casio Calculator
      How to
      Set Decimal Places on a TI BA II Plus Calculator
      How Input Negative Infinity on an Android: Google, Desmos & More
      How to
      Use the Google Calculator
      How to
      Use a Scientific Calculator For Algebra
      How to
      Make a Program to Simplify Radicals on a TI-84: Step-by-Step Guide
      How to
      Use Solver on a TI 83/TI 84
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://sciencing.com/make-fraction-scientific-calculator-5843488.html
      2. ↑ https://www.open.edu/openlearn/science-maths-technology/mathematics-statistics/using-scientific-calculator/content-section-3
      3. ↑ https://sciencing.com/make-fraction-scientific-calculator-5843488.html
      4. ↑ https://sciencing.com/make-fraction-scientific-calculator-5843488.html
      5. ↑ https://sciencing.com/make-fraction-scientific-calculator-5843488.html
      6. ↑ https://sciencing.com/make-fraction-scientific-calculator-5843488.html
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/zmuPL8iKpXo?si=Ogw1q5n2rrOJZNfp&t=47
      8. ↑ https://education.ti.com/html/webhelp/EG_TI84PlusCE/UK/Subsystems/EG_TIC_CE_SW/Content/EG_84_TIConnect/M_UpdateDeviceOS/OS_UpdateOS.HTML
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/zmuPL8iKpXo?si=TXurvd4J8xuro3BW&t=56
      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/zmuPL8iKpXo?si=9c5L7a3J6VPZDHAx&t=69
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/zmuPL8iKpXo?si=8dj6xNBMOmB3PnCa&t=81
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/zmuPL8iKpXo?si=ja-gDnDf-K30EnX6&t=93
      4. ↑ https://sciencing.com/make-fraction-scientific-calculator-5843488.html
      5. ↑ David Jia. Math Tutor. Expert Interview
      6. ↑ https://sciencing.com/make-fraction-scientific-calculator-5843488.html
      7. ↑ David Jia. Math Tutor. Expert Interview
      8. ↑ David Jia. Academic Tutor. Expert Interview
      9. ↑ https://www.mathsisfun.com/converting-fractions-percents.html

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 456,230 times.

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement