Skill: Compare fractions with the same numerator

When two positive fractions have the same numerator, compare their denominators.

The denominator tells how many equal parts the whole is divided into:

• A larger denominator makes smaller parts.
• Counting the same number of smaller parts gives a smaller fraction.

Example: Compare $\frac{3}{4}$ and $\frac{3}{8}$

1. The numerators are the same: both are $3$.
2. Compare the denominators: $8$ is greater than $4$.
3. Eighths are smaller pieces than fourths. So $3$ eighths is less than $3$ fourths.
4. Write the comparison:

$$\frac{3}{8}<\frac{3}{4}$$

On a number line, $\frac{3}{8}$ is closer to $0$, while $\frac{3}{4}$ is farther to the right. Remember: with the same numerator, the fraction with the larger denominator is smaller.