Worked example 1
Subtract 5/6 - 1/4.
Make the denominators match first. LCD of 6 and 4 is 12. Rewrite: 5/6 = 10/12 and 1/4 = 3/12. Now subtract: 10/12 - 3/12 = 7/12.
Answer: 7/12
Grade 6 Math · Topic 11
Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators
Subtracting is the same setup as adding — you must have a common denominator first. Once the denominators match, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same. Don't forget to simplify.
Lesson alignment: Prerequisite review · 5.NF.A.1–2 · Take your time. You can return to this lesson whenever you need it.
Explore visually
Subtract fractions with a common-unit model
Rename both fractions with the same-sized pieces, then subtract the numerators.
Think first: What common denominator will make the fraction pieces the same size?
Ready? Reveal the model and try your prediction
Swipe horizontally to see the full diagram.
Turn on JavaScript to adjust this model. The examples and practice below work without it.
Follow the worked examples
Read each step, then cover the explanation and see if you can explain why it works.
Worked example 2
Subtract 7/8 - 2/3.
Make the denominators match first. LCD is 24. 7/8 = 21/24 and 2/3 = 16/24. Now subtract: 21/24 - 16/24 = 5/24.
Answer: 5/24
Try a few on your own
Work these on paper first. Open “Check” when you are ready to compare your answer.
- 3/4 - 1/3 =
Check
5/12
- 5/6 - 1/2 =
Check
1/3
- 7/10 - 1/5 =
Check
1/2
- 9/10 - 2/5 =
Check
1/2
- 5/8 - 1/4 =
Check
3/8
- 11/12 - 1/3 =
Check
7/12
- 2/3 - 1/6 =
Check
1/2
- 7/9 - 1/6 =
Check
11/18
Try this situation 1
A jug holds 5/6 gallon of lemonade. Jonah pours out 1/4 gallon. How much lemonade is left in the jug?
Show a worked solution
Answer: 7/12 gallon.
Make the denominators match first. LCD is 12. 5/6 = 10/12, 1/4 = 3/12. Now subtract: 7/12.
Try this situation 2
A ribbon is 7/8 yard long. A piece 1/3 yard long is cut off. How much ribbon remains?
Show a worked solution
Answer: 13/24 yard.
Make the denominators match first. LCD is 24. 7/8 = 21/24 and 1/3 = 8/24. 21/24 - 8/24 = 13/24.
Fresh questions · saved on this device
Practice this skill
Try a fresh set each time. Answer one question, check your thinking, and read the explanation. If you miss one, return to the visual model and try another round.
Question 1 of 50 correct so far
Session complete
Check what you learned
Answer these five questions on your own. You can review the explanations after you submit and try again whenever you like. This short check is for practice, not a grade.
Practice and finish
Try the linked topic quiz for more practice. If something is tricky, return to the example and look for the step that changes the numbers or representation.
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More Grade 6 resources
Use these free materials if you want another explanation, extra paper practice, or a broader review.