Fractions · lesson 16 of 24 · free

Subtracting fractions: different denominators — Fractions for kids

For 3/4 − 2/5, change both to twentieths (the LCM of 4 and 5): 15/20 − 8/20 = 7/20. Always take the smaller fraction from the bigger one.

▶ Watch how it works

Got it? Practise ↓

The method

LCM, then take away — “change both fractions to the LCM of the bottoms, then subtract the tops”

  1. Find the LCM of the two bottom numbers.
  2. Change each fraction to that bottom number.
  3. Subtract the tops, keep the bottom, and simplify.

Use it for: Finding differences and what is left in Class 5–7: juice left in a bottle, ribbon left after cutting.

🧮 Check your own sums with the free Fraction calculator — it shows the working.

Worked example: 3/4 − 2/5 = 7/20

  1. The LCM of 4 and 5 is 20: 3/4 = 15/20 and 2/5 = 8/20.
  2. Subtract the tops: 15 − 8 = 7, so the answer is 7/20.

Check: 7/20 + 8/20 = 15/20 = 3/4 ✓

▶ Watch it animated

✏️ Practice

Work it out in your head or on paper, type the answer and press Check. Stuck? Press “Show me how”.

Right: 0 · Tried: 0

🏁 Lesson 16 test

20 questions. Check each answer, then go to the next one. Get 16 or more right to pass.

🏅 Sign in with Google to earn the 🧮 Unlike-Fraction Subtractor badge when you pass — and a certificate when you finish all 6 lessons of Part 3 · Adding and subtracting fractions. You can still take the test without signing in.

🖨️ Subtract Fractions with Different Denominators Worksheet

✨ Free AI tutor

Ask the AI tutor about this lesson

Why does it work? When should you use it? Ask in English, मराठी or हिंदी.

Sign in with Google to ask Free — 20 questions a day.

👩‍🏫 Fractions classes — live online, request a call back

Prefer a real teacher? TalentJR teachers take live online classes anywhere in India. Tell us what you need and our team will call you with timings and fees.

Live online classesSmall groups or 1:1 with a teacher, from home, any city.
We call you backOur team asks what your child needs, then shares timings and fees.
Home tutor?We are still building our list of home tutors — ask on the call if there is one near you.
Badges, certificates & gifts A badge for every lesson you pass, a certificate for every part you finish, plus TalentJR Points for daily practice. Percentage made easy Next step: fractions as percentages.