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Fractions
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Fractions
Fractions are a fundamental topic in the Quantitative Aptitude section of most placement tests and competitive exams. They are widely used in mathematical calculations and real-life problem-solving situations.
Questions on fractions test a candidate’s ability to:
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Perform basic arithmetic operations
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Convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages
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Compare values
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Solve word problems involving parts of a whole
Common Types of Fraction Questions
1. Fraction Operations
Questions involving:
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Addition
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Subtraction
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Multiplication
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Division of fractions
Example:
Calculate:
3/5 + 1/4
LCM of 5 and 4 = 20
3/5 = 12/20
1/4 = 5/20
Sum = 17/20
2. Fraction to Decimal Conversion
Convert fractions into decimal form.
Example:
5/8 = 0.625
3. Simplification of Fractions
Reduce fractions to their lowest terms.
Example:
10/20
Divide numerator and denominator by 10:
= 1/2
4. Fraction Comparison
Determine which fraction is greater or smaller.
Example:
Compare 3/7 and 2/5
Cross multiply:
3 × 5 = 15
2 × 7 = 14
Since 15 > 14,
3/7 is greater than 2/5
5. Fraction and Percentage Equivalence
Convert fractions into percentages or vice versa.
Example:
3/4 = (3/4) × 100
= 75%
6. Mixed Fractions and Improper Fractions
Convert between mixed and improper fractions.
Example:
Convert 1 3/5 into an improper fraction.
(1 × 5 + 3) / 5
= 8/5
7. Fraction Word Problems
Apply fraction concepts to real-life situations.
Example:
If 2/5 of a job is completed in 3 days,
remaining work = 3/5
If 2/5 takes 3 days,
1/5 takes 1.5 days
So 3/5 takes:
1.5 × 3 = 4.5 days
8. Fraction of a Quantity
Find a fraction of a given number.
Example:
If 1/4 of a pizza is eaten,
remaining pizza =
1 − 1/4 = 3/4
9. Fraction and Ratio
Problems involving ratios expressed as fractions.
Example:
Ratio of boys to girls = 3 : 5
Boys = 15
3 parts = 15
1 part = 5
Girls = 5 × 5 = 25
10. Fractional Equations
Solve equations involving fractions.
Example:
Solve:
(2/3)x = 4
x = 4 × (3/2)
x = 6
Tips for Solving Fraction Problems
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Convert fractions to a common denominator for addition or subtraction.
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Simplify fractions whenever possible.
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Remember common fraction–percentage equivalents.
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Convert mixed fractions to improper fractions before calculations.
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Practise word problems to improve application skills.
