Subtracting Fractions in 5th Grade

1. Subtract fractions with unlike denominators

For 5/6 − 1/4, rename both fractions using twelfths: 5/6 = 10/12 and 1/4 = 3/12. Take away three of the ten shaded parts: 10/12 − 3/12 = 7/12. The whole and the size of each part stay the same.

2. Simplify after subtracting

For 2/3 − 1/6, use sixths: 4/6 − 1/6 = 3/6. Divide the numerator and denominator by three to simplify: 3/6 = 1/2. Simplifying changes the name of the fraction, while keeping its value.

3. Solve a subtraction word problem

A ribbon is 3/4 metre long. Cut off 2/5 metre. How much remains? Rename the lengths using twentieths: 15/20 − 8/20 = 7/20 metre. The amount left is smaller than the starting length. Add 7/20 and 8/20 to check that they make the original 15/20 metre.

4. Regroup mixed numbers when needed

For 2 1/4 − 1 5/6, first use twelfths: 2 3/12 − 1 10/12. Exchange one whole for twelve twelfths, so 2 3/12 becomes 1 15/12. Now subtract: 1 15/12 − 1 10/12 = 5/12. The regrouping preserves the starting amount.

5. Keep the common denominator

In 3/4 − 1/2, rename the half as 2/4. Three quarters minus two quarters leaves one quarter: 3/4 − 2/4 = 1/4. Subtracting the denominators would change the size of the pieces and give a different amount.

6. Check with addition and an estimate

For 5/6 − 1/4 = 7/12, add the answer to the amount taken away: 7/12 + 3/12 = 10/12 = 5/6. The answer is also between 1/2 and 5/6, which fits taking a quarter away from an amount close to one.

Keep practising

Connect subtraction to adding fractions · Get the free worksheets and answer key

The related game practises fraction addition and common denominators. For subtraction practice, use the seven questions above and open each worked answer after trying it.

Examples and answers checked on 4 November 2026. Help review these public resources.

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