Fractions always have a tendency to scare math student no matter what level of study they’re in. You’re likely to have been first introduced to fractions in elementary school, so before we start mixing in variables into our questions – as you’d expect with algebraic expressions – a good place to start would be to relearn how to add and subtract numerical fractions. The following videos will review the different types of fractions (proper, improper, and mixed) and show this process in action:
- A video lessons exclusively on converting between the three types of fractions can be accessed here. You may skip this link if you’re comfortable with the process.
You’ll find in the next video which caters to fractions containing algebraic symbols, that you can combine most terms by first finding a common denominator (or lowest common denominator). The first of this two part video series explores simple terms being combined, though it’s strongly encouraged you also watch Part 2 (also linked below) which explores how to combine through addition or subtraction more complicated expressions.