How to Convert Fractions

Converting fractions is mostly one operation: divide the numerator (top) by the denominator (bottom). That single step turns any fraction into a decimal, and a percentage is just one more step.

Fraction to decimal

Divide top by bottom. 3/4 = 3 ÷ 4 = 0.75. 1/8 = 1 ÷ 8 = 0.125.

Decimal to percentage

Multiply by 100 and add a percent sign. 0.75 → 75%. So 3/4 = 0.75 = 75%, the same value in different clothes.

Simplifying and mixed numbers

To simplify a fraction, divide top and bottom by their greatest common factor: 6/8 → both divide by 2 → 3/4. A mixed number like 2 1/2 converts by handling the whole and the fraction: 1/2 = 0.5, so 2 1/2 = 2.5. To go the other way, the whole-number part stays and the decimal becomes a fraction (0.5 = 1/2).

Frequently asked questions

How do I turn a fraction into a decimal? Divide the top number by the bottom number.

How do I get a percentage? Convert to a decimal, then multiply by 100.

How do I simplify a fraction? Divide numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor.

Some fractions produce repeating decimals — 1/3 = 0.333… — so round to the precision you need rather than chasing endless digits. And to compare two fractions quickly, convert both to decimals; it’s far faster than finding a common denominator.

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