1. Decisions and Actions in evaluating fraction problems
Fraction Flowchart
Decisions and Actions in evaluating fraction problems
Graeme Henchel

2. Decision: What is the operation?
x,÷
+ , -

3. Decision: Are there Mixed Numbers?
+, -
Decision: Are there Mixed Numbers?
For example is a mixed number
YES
Mixed Numbers? NO

4. ACTION: Evaluate Whole numbers
+, -
Evaluate the whole number part and
keep aside till later
4+3=7

5. Decision: Are there common Denominators?
+, -
For example and have the same (common) denominator
Common Denominators?
YES NO

6. Action: Find equivalent fractions
+, -
Find equivalent fractions with
common (the same) denominators
Multiply by a special form of 1
Multiply by a special form of 1

7. Action: Add or Subtract the numerators
+, -
Add (or subtract) the numerators this is the number of parts 2+3=5
Keep the Common Denominator.
This is the name of the fraction

8. Decision: Is the numerator negative?
+, -
Decision: Is the numerator negative?
Is numerator negative?
YES NO
This numerator is negative

9. Action: Borrow a whole unit
+, -
Action: Borrow a whole unit
Borrow 1 from the whole number part
Write it as an equivalent fraction
Add this to your negative fraction
Remember to adjust your whole number total

10. Action: Add any whole number part
+, -
Action: Add any whole number part

11. +, -
That’s All Folks

12. Decision: Are there Mixed Numbers?
For example is a mixed number
YES NO
Mixed Numbers?

13. Action: Change to improper fractions
x,÷
Action: Change to improper fractions OR
4X5=20
and 20+3=23

14. Decision: Is this a X or a ÷ problem?

15. Action: Invert the 2nd Fraction and replace division ÷ with multiply x
Invert the 2nd fraction and multiply

16. Decision : Is cancelling Possible?
x,÷
Decision : Is cancelling Possible?
Do numbers in the numerators and the denominators have common factors
Yes No
Common factors
in numerators
and denominators

17. Action Simplify by cancelling
x,÷
Action Simplify by cancelling 1 1
÷ 3
÷ 5
÷ 3
÷ 5 2 2

18. ACTION: Multiply the numerators AND the denominators
x,÷
ACTION: Multiply the numerators AND the denominators

19. Decision: Is the product improper (top heavy)
x,÷
Decision: Is the product improper (top heavy)
Yes No
Is the fraction
improper ?
(top heavy)

20. Action: Change to a mixed Number

21. x,÷
That’s All Folks