What topics are included in pre-algebra?

Common topics include integers, order of operations, factors and multiples, fractions, decimals, exponents, ratios, percents, expressions, and simple equations. The exact course order may vary.

Can I solve mixed-number or fraction problems here?

Yes. Enter the full question, such as 1 1/2 + 2 1/4, and say whether you want a simplified fraction, mixed number, or decimal. Use clear parentheses if the notation is ambiguous.

Can I upload a handwritten pre-algebra problem?

Yes. Upload a well-lit, cropped photo that shows the full problem, especially fraction bars, exponents, parentheses, and minus signs.

Will the calculator explain every step?

The AI solver is designed to show a method and intermediate steps. Check important results by estimating or substituting the answer back into the original problem.

Pre-algebra problem solver

Pre Algebra Calculator

Work through the math between arithmetic and algebra. Enter an expression, fraction, ratio, or simple equation—or upload a clear photo—and review the method and answer step by step.

Text or photo inputSteps explainedNo sign-up required

Solve a pre-algebra problem

pre algebra calculator

numbers → rules → x

Order of operations and integers

Fractions and decimals

Factors and exponents

pre algebra calculator

Solve a pre-algebra problem

Include the whole expression or equation, with parentheses, negative signs, and fraction bars clearly written. For a word problem, say what the unknown represents.

Text inputPhoto upload

Drop files to Attach, orbrowse

pre algebra calculator

What can this pre-algebra calculator help with?

Pre-algebra starts with reliable number skills and leads into variables. These are common questions you can enter in the solver above.

numbers → rules → x

13 + 4 × 2 = 11

23/4 + 2/3 = 17/12

3GCF(18, 24) = 6

43x + 7 = 22 → x = 5

Order of operations and integers

Evaluate expressions with parentheses, negative numbers, powers, multiplication, and division in the right order.

Fractions and decimals

Compare, simplify, convert, and calculate with fractions, mixed numbers, and decimals.

Factors and exponents

Find prime factors, greatest common factors, least common multiples, squares, roots, and simple powers.

Ratios, percents, and basic equations

Set up proportions, find a percent of a quantity, and solve one- or two-step equations with a variable.

Step

How to solve a pre-algebra problem

A small change in a sign or grouping can change the answer. Keep each operation visible as you work.

1
Enter the complete question
3(2 + 5) - 4 × 2
Copy the numbers, operation signs, parentheses, and what you need to find. Upload a sharp photo if that is easier.
2
Identify the rule
(2 + 5) = 7
Decide whether to use operation order, a common denominator, factorization, a proportion, or inverse operations.
3
Follow each step
3 × 7 - 8
Simplify one part at a time. For an equation, keep both sides balanced as you isolate the variable.
4
Check the result
13 ✓
Estimate whether the answer is reasonable and substitute a solved value back into the original equation.

Tip: 3 + 4 × 2 equals 11, not 14. Multiplication comes before addition unless parentheses change the order.

Example

Pre-algebra examples to try

Start with one of these, or enter your own problem above. Mixed numbers and fractions belong here without separate calculators.

Example 1

Evaluate 3(2 + 5) - 4 × 2.

Do the parentheses first, then multiplication: 3 × 7 - 8 = 13.

Example 2

Add 3/4 and 2/3. Simplify the answer.

Use a common denominator of 12: 9/12 + 8/12 = 17/12 = 1 5/12.

Example 3

Solve 3x + 7 = 22 and check the answer.

Subtract 7, then divide by 3: x = 5. Check: 3(5) + 7 = 22.

Order of operations and integers

3 + 4 × 2 = 11

Evaluate expressions with parentheses, negative numbers, powers, multiplication, and division in the right order.

Fractions and decimals

3/4 + 2/3 = 17/12

Compare, simplify, convert, and calculate with fractions, mixed numbers, and decimals.

Factors and exponents

GCF(18, 24) = 6

Find prime factors, greatest common factors, least common multiples, squares, roots, and simple powers.

Ratios, percents, and basic equations

3x + 7 = 22 → x = 5

Set up proportions, find a percent of a quantity, and solve one- or two-step equations with a variable.

Formula guides

Understand the formulas used here

Review the related formulas, when to use them, and how they connect in a worked example.

Exponent Rules

Learn the product, quotient, power, zero, negative, and fractional exponent rules with examples and one complete simplification.

Open formula guide

Common pre-algebra mistakes

Use these checks when the answer looks wrong or your steps do not match the original problem.

Ignoring operation order

Handle grouping and powers before multiplication or division, then addition or subtraction from left to right.

Adding denominators

For fraction addition, find a common denominator and add the numerators. Do not add the denominators.

Losing a negative sign

Keep negative numbers in parentheses when substituting, and check every sign after distributing.