Decimal to Fraction Calculator: Convert Any Decimal to Fraction Form
Our Decimal to Fraction Calculator converts decimal numbers to their equivalent fraction representation, automatically simplifying fractions to lowest terms. Whether you're working on math homework, engineering calculations, or everyday conversions, this tool provides accurate results with step-by-step explanations.
What This Calculator Does
The Decimal to Fraction Calculator converts decimal numbers to fractions by:
- Identifying decimal places: Counts the number of decimal places in your input
- Converting to fraction: Multiplies by the appropriate power of 10 to create a fraction
- Simplifying: Uses the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) to reduce fractions to lowest terms
- Handling mixed numbers: Automatically formats whole numbers with fractional parts as mixed numbers
- Supporting negatives: Properly handles negative decimal values
This calculator handles terminating decimals (like 0.5, 0.75, 1.25) and provides exact fraction representations. For example, 0.75 converts to 3/4, and 1.5 converts to 3/2 or 1 1/2 as a mixed number.
How to Use It
- Enter decimal number: Type your decimal number in the input field (e.g., 0.5, 0.75, 1.25, -0.333)
- Click Calculate: The calculator instantly converts your decimal to fraction form
- Review results: See the fraction, mixed number (if applicable), numerator, denominator, and calculation steps
You can enter positive or negative decimals, whole numbers, or numbers with many decimal places. The calculator handles precision up to 15 decimal places for optimal accuracy.
Interpreting Your Results
- Fraction: The decimal expressed as a simplified fraction (e.g., 3/4 for 0.75)
- Mixed Number: If applicable, shows the whole number part plus the fractional part (e.g., 1 1/2 for 1.5)
- Numerator: The top number of the fraction
- Denominator: The bottom number of the fraction
- Calculation Steps: Step-by-step breakdown showing how the conversion was performed
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Entering fractions instead of decimals: Make sure to enter decimal form (0.5) not fraction form (1/2)
- Including spaces: Enter the number without spaces (e.g., "0.75" not "0.75 ")
- Expecting repeating decimals: This calculator focuses on terminating decimals; repeating decimals like 0.333... require special handling
- Forgetting negative signs: Negative decimals are supported, but make sure the minus sign is before the number
Keep Learning
Explore these guides to master decimal-to-fraction conversions:
Sources
- Khan Academy – Decimal and fraction conversion methods
- National Council of Teachers of Mathematics – Fraction simplification techniques
- Mathematical Association of America – Decimal representation theory
