To do fractions on Google’s calculator, type each fraction with a slash, such as 3/4 + 1/6, into the Google search box and press Enter. Google treats the slash as division and shows the answer as a decimal (0.91666666666 for that example). Wrapping each fraction in parentheses, like (3/4) + (1/6), keeps longer problems in the right order.
Google Search doesn’t have a fraction key or an a b/c button, so getting a fraction back takes an extra step, covered below.
Quick Answer
Type the fractions with / between the top and bottom numbers, for example (2/3) * (3/5), and press Enter. The result is shown as a decimal.
How to Enter Fractions in the Google Calculator
- Go to Google and type your problem in the search box, using / for each fraction bar.
- Put each fraction in parentheses when you mix operations, for example (1/2) + (3/8) * 2.
- Press Enter. The calculator card appears with the expression on top and the decimal answer below it.
- Use the on-screen keypad to edit the problem, or click in the search box and retype it.
How to Type Each Kind of Fraction Problem
| Problem | What to type | Google’s answer |
|---|---|---|
| Add fractions | (3/4) + (1/6) | 0.91666666666 |
| Subtract fractions | (5/6) – (1/4) | 0.58333333333 |
| Multiply fractions | (2/3) * (3/5) | 0.4 |
| Divide fractions | (3/4) / (1/8) | 6 |
| Mixed number (2 ½ + 1 ¼) | (2 + 1/2) + (1 + 1/4) | 3.75 |
| Fraction of a number | (3/8) * 64 | 24 |
Always type a mixed number as a whole number plus a fraction inside parentheses. Typing 2 1/2 with a space can be read differently than you intend.
How to Get the Answer as a Fraction
Google Search returns decimals only. To turn the result back into a fraction:
- Recognize common decimals: 0.5 = 1/2, 0.25 = 1/4, 0.75 = 3/4, 0.333… = 1/3, 0.125 = 1/8.
- Work it by hand: Find a common denominator. For 3/4 + 1/6, the common denominator is 12, so 9/12 + 2/12 = 11/12, which matches 0.91666.
- Use the Google Calculator app on Android: On Pixel phones and other Android devices with Google’s Calculator app, some versions can show an exact fraction for results. If you see a decimal, try tapping = again or tapping the result.
- Use a dedicated fraction calculator: Many free fraction calculators return simplified fractions and mixed numbers.
Troubleshooting
- Google shows search results instead of the calculator: Remove words from the query and type only the numbers and symbols.
- The answer looks wrong: Add parentheses around each fraction. Without them, multiplication and division are done before addition and subtraction.
- You need the fraction for a document: See how to do fractions in Word.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Google’s calculator have a fraction button?
No. It has a division key (÷), which does the same job as the slash.
How do I put 1/3 into a calculator?
Type 1 ÷ 3 (or 1/3). The result, 0.33333333333, is the decimal form of one third.
Can I type fractions into Google by voice?
Yes. Say something like “three quarters plus one sixth,” and Google usually turns it into a calculation.
Summary
- Type each fraction as top number / bottom number.
- Wrap fractions in parentheses.
- Press Enter to see the decimal answer.
- Convert the decimal back to a fraction by hand or with a fraction calculator.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.