Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators
The first fraction is always the larger one, so every answer is positive, but the denominators never match: 3/4 − 1/6 needs twelfths before anything can be subtracted. Easy keeps one denominator a multiple of the other; medium and hard use any pair. Answers on the key are in lowest terms.
Halves to tenths.
Ready-made PDFs
One-click downloads, answer key included, a different puzzle in each.
FAQ
How do students know which fraction is bigger?
They do not need to check; the generator puts the larger fraction first. Comparing fractions is its own page, linked below, if you want that step practiced separately.
How are the answers written on the key?
In lowest terms, and as a mixed number when the result is more than 1 (7/4 shows as 1 3/4). If a student writes an unsimplified but correct fraction, that is a teaching moment rather than a wrong answer; the key shows the form most rubrics expect.
Can students work these on a tablet?
Yes. Practice online puts a pen tool over the same sheet, so the fraction can be written with a stylus or finger and wiped for another try.
How do I print this subtracting fractions worksheet?
Click Download PDF and print at 100% scale. The page is already sized for US Letter with printer-safe margins, so no fit-to-page fiddling is needed.
Are there mixed numbers in the problems?
Not on this page: both fractions are proper. Subtracting from mixed numbers, with the borrowing that brings, is a later skill.
What does the Denominators control change?
The largest denominator the generator may use: 6, 10 or 12. Smaller denominators keep the numbers friendly for a first pass; 12 brings in sevenths, ninths and elevenths, which force the general method instead of pattern-spotting.
Can I get different versions for each student?
Turn on the 5 versions switch before downloading. You get five different sheets in one PDF, each with its own answer key, so neighbouring desks cannot copy.