Rules Checklist for Adding and Subtracting Rational

Numbers!

Fractions:
1) You need a common denominator (bottom number
the same!)
2) Change mixed numbers to improper fractions to do
the adding or subtracting, at this point you are only
working with the numerators or top numbers.
3) INTEGER RULES APPLY AT THIS POINT,
LOOK BELOW!
4) Once you have calculated your answer ALWAYS put
the answer in lowest terms make sure to convert it
back to a mixed number if it remains an improper
fraction.
Integer Rules for Adding and Subtracting:
1) (+) + (+) = +
2) (-) + (-) = -
3) (+) + (-) = determine if the positive or negative is the
larger number. Keep the sign of the larger number!
Subtracting Integers
1) Watch for -(-#) this will become a + sign.
2) Use a number line if you are confused