Subtracting fractions with the same denominator
Practice subtracting fractions with the same denominator, then simplify the nonnegative answer.
Sample worksheet
Download the sample worksheet and answer key, or open the builder to change the settings.
Download sample PDF
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Before starting: Compare fractions with the same denominator and simplify fractions using a common factor.
After this: Use addition to check the difference, then study equivalent fractions before unlike-denominator subtraction.
Example questions
- 6/9 - 2/9
- 11/12 - 5/12
- 7/8 - 3/8
Settings in the builder
- denominator range
- nonnegative results
- simplification
Worked example
6/9 - 2/9
Answer: 4/9
How to solve it
Remove 2 ninths from 6 ninths to leave 4 ninths. Keep the denominator 9 because the parts have not changed size.
Common mistakes
What to check
- subtracting denominators
- reversing the fractions to avoid a negative
Ways to review the work
- 1
Shade the starting amount, then cross out the removed parts.
- 2
Ask learners to reconstruct the starting fraction by adding the removed amount back.
Teaching content updated 2026-09-05. Read our accuracy standards.