Fraction Fundamentals

Fractions describe parts of a whole — and pizza makes them click:

• The numerator counts parts; the denominator defines the size of each part
• To compare fractions, use a common denominator or cross-multiply
• Addition and subtraction require matching denominators — convert first, then combine numerators
• Always simplify by dividing both numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor
• Fractions appear constantly in language: half, quarter, third, fifth

Once you see fractions as slices, the rules stop feeling arbitrary and start making obvious sense.