Multiplying fractions, step by step

Multiplying fractions is the friendly one.

The question

×

×
top: 4 × 3 = 12
× =
=
  1. Multiplying, not adding — so no common denominator, and nothing has to be cut into matching pieces first. Tops with tops, bottoms with bottoms.
  2. Multiply the two top numbers: 4 × 3 = 12.
  3. Multiply the two bottom numbers: 5 × 8 = 40.
  4. 12/40 simplifies to 3/10.

How it works.

  1. 01

    Multiplying, not adding — so no common denominator, and nothing has to be cut into matching pieces first. Tops with tops, bottoms with bottoms.

  2. 02

    Multiply the two top numbers: 4 × 3 = 12.

  3. 03

    Multiply the two bottom numbers: 5 × 8 = 40.

  4. 04

    12/40 simplifies to 3/10.