Use our Equivalent Fractions Calculator to generate up to 100,000 equal fractions instantly. Learn how to scale fractions with our easy student guide and the “Golden Rule.”
The Magic of Equivalent Fractions
Have you ever shared a giant cookie? If you break it into two big pieces and take one, you have 1/2. But if you break that same cookie into four smaller pieces and take two, you have 2/4. You are holding the exact same amount of cookie both times! That is the secret of Equivalent Fractions: they look different but represent the same value.
The Golden Rule
To make an equivalent fraction, follow the Golden Rule:
"Whatever you do to the top number, you must do to the bottom number."
If you multiply the top by 3, you must multiply the bottom by 3. For example, starting with 1/2:
- 1 times 3 = 3
- 2 times 3 = 6
- Result: 1/2 is exactly the same as 3/6!
Why Use Them?
We use equivalent fractions to make math easier. They help us add and subtract fractions by making the bottom numbers match. They are also essential for cooking (like using two 1/4 cups to make 1/2 cup) and for architects who scale down giant building designs to fit on paper.
The Quick Check
Not sure if two fractions are equal? Try Cross-Multiplication. Multiply the top of the first by the bottom of the second, then the bottom of the first by the top of the second. If the answers match, they are equivalent!