Free Decimal to Fraction Converter
Your tape measure reads 2.5 inches but the saw is marked in sixteenths. This free decimal-to-fraction converter finds the nearest simplified fraction for any decimal, with a selectable maximum denominator and a table of the closest fraction for every common denominator.
Nearest fraction for common denominators
| Denominator | Fraction | Decimal | Error |
|---|
How to Use the Decimal to Fraction Converter
- Enter a decimal number such as 2.5.
- Pick the maximum denominator — 16 for rulers, higher for precision.
- Read the nearest simplified fraction, shown as a mixed number when needed.
- Compare denominators in the table, with the error of each approximation.
Features
Best-fit fraction search up to denominator 1000, automatic GCD simplification, mixed-number display, per-denominator comparison table with error values, and exact-match detection.
Benefits & Use Cases
Woodworkers, machinists, cooks, and students all get workshop-ready fractions from decimal measurements. The error column shows exactly how close each approximation is.
Tips
For woodworking, cap the denominator at 16 or 32 to match your ruler. Repeating decimals like 0.333… resolve to clean fractions (1/3) when you allow larger denominators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 0.5 as a fraction?
1/2.
What is 0.75 as a fraction?
3/4.
How does it find the nearest fraction?
It tests every denominator up to your chosen maximum, picks the numerator with the smallest error, then simplifies with the greatest common divisor.
What does max denominator do?
It caps the search: with 16 you get workshop-friendly fractions like 5/16; with 1000 you get near-exact representations like 333/1000 for 0.333.
Can it handle repeating decimals?
It finds the closest fraction within your denominator limit — 0.333 with max 1000 gives 333/1000; raise the limit for tighter fits.
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