Multiplying Fractions Calculator
Multiply two fractions and see the product reduced to lowest terms, as a mixed number and decimal, with each step shown.
Product in lowest terms
1/2
Before reducing the product is 6/12.
As a mixed number
1/2
As a decimal
0.5
Step by step
- Multiply the numerators: 2 × 3 = 6
- Multiply the denominators: 3 × 4 = 12
- That gives 6/12
- Reduce 6/12 → 1/2
How it works
Multiplying fractions is the easy one — no common denominator needed. You multiply the two top numbers to get the new numerator and the two bottom numbers to get the new denominator. So 2/3 times 3/4 is (2 × 3) over (3 × 4), which is 6/12.
That raw product is then reduced. 6/12 divides down to 1/2, which is the answer you'll see. You also get the mixed number for results above one and the decimal form. Multiplying two proper fractions always gives something smaller than either one, which is a good gut-check.
Negative numerators work fine — the sign follows the usual rules, so a negative times a positive gives a negative product, and two negatives give a positive. Every step, from multiplying across to the final reduction, is spelled out.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a common denominator to multiply fractions?
No — that's only for adding and subtracting. To multiply, you just multiply the numerators together and the denominators together, then reduce. This tool does both and shows the working.
Why is the answer smaller than the fractions I typed?
Multiplying two numbers that are each less than one gives a result smaller than either. Taking 2/3 of 3/4 leaves 1/2, because you're taking a part of a part.
How are negative fractions handled?
Put the minus sign on a numerator. A negative fraction times a positive one gives a negative product; two negatives cancel to a positive. The reduced answer keeps the correct sign.