Multiplying and dividing fractions

Calculate a fraction of a quantity and divide by a fraction.

Find part of a part

Multiply numerators together and denominators together. A fraction of a fraction is often smaller than either starting value.

Worked example

2/3 × 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2

To divide by a nonzero fraction, multiply by its reciprocal: swap its numerator and denominator. This counts how many fractional portions fit.

Worked example

3/4 ÷ 1/8 = 3/4 × 8/1 = 6