Multiplying and dividing fractions · Usually met around P5
Fractions: mixed operations
Brackets → × ÷ → + −.
How to do it
Method
Brackets → × ÷ → + −
12 + 13 × 34 = 12 + 14 = 34
Another way
Share it out
12 × (13 + 14) = 4 + 3 = 7
In full
The order is the same as for whole numbers: brackets first, then × and ÷, then + and −; equal steps left to right. 12 + 13 × 34: multiply first, 13 × 34 = 14, then 12 + 14 = 34. Sharing a product out can make it easier: 12 × (13 + 14) = 12 × 13 + 12 × 14 = 4 + 3 = 7, the same as brackets first, 12 × 712 = 7.
Worked examples
Have a go first, then open each one for the answer and the working.
Example 1
23 − 18 ÷ 12 = ?
Answer in simplest form
Show the answer and working
Answer: 512
Divide first: 18 ÷ 12 = 14; then 23 − 14 = 512.
Example 2
14 + 14 × 710 = 1740
True or false?
Show the answer and working
Answer: True
Multiply 14 × 710 first, then add 14: 1740.
Example 3
180 × (15 + 49) = ?
Show the answer and working
Answer: 116
Share it out: 180 × 15 + 180 × 49 = 36 + 80 = 116.
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