1. Adding/Subtracting Fractions  Step 1:  Find common denominator  NOTE: If the denominators are the same go to Step 3  Step 2:  Change fractions into equivalent fractions with same denominator  Step 3:  Add/Subtract the numerator  Step 4:  Carry across the denominator  Step 5  Ensure nothing can be simplified

2. RULE: Parentheses has a mathematical symbol + between meaning to add the fractions. NOTE: The first fraction is positive, the second fraction is negative. Thus, this will be subtraction

3. Written as subtraction

4. LCD: Find least common denominator LCD: Evenly divides 18 and 6

5. How about 18? Change fraction to equivalent fractions with denominator of 18

6. Multiply by 1 does not change the fraction

7. No need for parentheses Subtract the numerators and carry the denominator

8. Look to see if anything can be simplified? Divide out a 2 in the numerator and denominator

9. Final answer