Identify the Denominator
Determine how many equal intervals make one whole.
Free Interactive Math Tool
Fractions on a Number Line
Learn how the denominator divides each whole into equal intervals, how the numerator counts those intervals from zero, and how to locate proper and improper fractions on a number line.
Learn How to Locate Fractions First
Learn how the denominator divides each whole into equal intervals, how the numerator counts those intervals from zero, and how proper and improper fractions are placed on a number line.
Read the Fractions on a Number Line GuideHow It Works
Locate Fractions Step by Step
Use the denominator to partition the number line, use the numerator to count the intervals, and then select the correct location.
Count the Numerator
Determine how many fractional intervals to count from zero.
Select the Location
Click the tick mark that represents the fraction.
Interpret the Position
Answer a quick question about the fraction's location and value.
Interactive Practice
Fractions on a Number Line
Correct
0
Problems
0
Streak
0
Locate This Fraction
3
5
1
Denominator
2
Numerator
3
Locate
4
Interpret
Step 1
How many equal intervals make one whole?
The denominator tells you how many equal parts each whole must be divided into.
3
5
→
Step 2
How many intervals should you count from zero?
The numerator tells you how many fractional intervals to move to the right from zero.
3
5
→
Step 3
Select the fraction's location.
Each small interval represents one part of size 1/5 . Count the required number of intervals from zero, and then click the correct tick mark.
Interactive Number Line
Click the tick mark for 3/5.
Whole numbers
Fractional intervals
Step 4
What does the fraction's position tell you?
Is 3/5 closer to zero or one?
Great job!
You located and interpreted the fraction correctly.
Remember
Fraction Number Line Rules
The Denominator Creates the Intervals
A denominator of 5 divides every whole into five equal intervals.
1 whole = 5 fifths
The Numerator Counts the Intervals
A numerator of 3 means move three fractional intervals from zero.
3/5 = three fifth-size intervals
Improper Fractions Pass One Whole
When the numerator is greater than the denominator, the fraction lies to the right of one.
7/5 = 1 2/5
Equivalent Fractions Share a Location
Different-looking fractions can occupy the same point on a number line.
1/2 = 2/4 = 3/6
Keep Learning
Learn More About Fractions on a Number Line
Review equal intervals, unit fractions, proper fractions, improper fractions, mixed numbers, equivalent locations, and worked number-line examples in the complete guide.
Read the Fractions on a Number Line Guide