How Do You Divide Fractions In Math?
Just like you learned basic multiplication and division, you should learn how to apply these operations to fractions. Division with fractions can be confusing at first, but is a needed skill. It may be preferable that you learn how to multiply fractions first. The key thing to remember is the phrase “Reverse-reverse”. Think of the Cha-cha Slide, if it helps. “Reverse-reverse” is the rule for dividing, which you will soon understand. Let’s use the problem 1/2 / 1/8. Wait! Unlike in multiplication, you can’t do this straight across. So how do you do it? By reversing the operation and the numerator and denominator of the second fraction. Division becomes multiplication. The denominator, 8, is now the numerator, and the numerator, 1, is now the denominator, for a fraction of 8/1. And now that you have the problem set up correctly, you can multiply straight across! 1 x 8 = 8, and 2 x 1 = 2, so you get 8/2 or 4. Congratulations! You can now divide fractions!
