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5th Grade Math · Add and Subtract Fractions with Unlike Denominators

Mixed numbers Worksheets

Fresh practice, ready to print. Answer key included.

Mixed numbers with different denominators, such as 2 1/2 + 1 1/3.

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Mixed numbers Worksheets: page 1 of a free printable 5th grade math worksheet
Page 1 of a sample worksheet

How it works: a quick refresher

The rules this worksheet practices, then one problem worked from start to finish.

StrategyHow it works
A multiple is the quicker case1/2 + 1/6: sixths already work. 1/2 = 3/6, so 3/6 + 1/6 = 4/6 = 2/3.
Otherwise build a common denominator1/3 + 1/4. Twelfths work for both: 4/12 + 3/12 = 7/12.
Subtract the same wayRewrite, then subtract the numerators. 2/3 − 1/2 = 4/6 − 3/6 = 1/6.
Simplify at the end4/6 is 2/3. The common denominator is a step, not always the final denominator.
Mixed numbersAdd or subtract the fractions, then the whole numbers. Regroup when a fraction is too small to subtract, or when the fractions add to more than 1.

Worked example

Find 1/3 + 1/4.

  1. 13 and 4 share no factor other than 1. A common denominator is 3 × 4 = 12.
  2. 21/3 = 4/12 and 1/4 = 3/12.
  3. 34/12 + 3/12 = 7/12.
  4. 47 and 12 have no common factor, so 1/3 + 1/4 = 7/12.

Ready-made versions

Three fixed versions you can link to or share. Each is a PDF with its own answer key.

Grade level and standard

Written for 5th grade math (fractions) and aligned to CCSS 5.NF.A.1. It also works as review in later grades.

Common questions

Is there an answer key?
Yes. Every worksheet has a matching answer key with each answer worked on the same grid or layout as the question. The worksheet code printed at the bottom of each page pairs a sheet with its key.
Does the common denominator have to be the least one?
No. 24 also works for thirds and fourths: 8/24 + 6/24 = 14/24, which simplifies to 7/12. The least one is less to multiply, and the answer is the same.
Why is 1/2 + 1/4 not 2/6?
Adding the denominators does not name the new pieces. Halves and fourths are different sizes. Turn the half into fourths first: 2/4 + 1/4 = 3/4.
How many different versions are there?
About a million per skill. Each time you press the button the problems are generated fresh, so you can print a different version for every student, a retake, or another night of practice.
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