Question

subtract:
\frac{7}{8} - \frac{5}{12}
write your answer as a fraction in simplest form.

Explanation:

Step1: Find common denominator

The least common denominator of 8 and 12 is 24.

Step2: Rewrite fractions

$\frac{7}{8} = \frac{7\times3}{8\times3} = \frac{21}{24}$, $\frac{5}{12} = \frac{5\times2}{12\times2} = \frac{10}{24}$

Step3: Subtract the fractions

$\frac{21}{24} - \frac{10}{24} = \frac{21-10}{24} = \frac{11}{24}$

Step4: Simplify the fraction

11 and 24 have no common factors other than 1, so the fraction is already in simplest form.

Answer:

$\frac{11}{24}$