A Fraction Around a Sum

In the equation $\frac{x+1}{2} = 5$, the whole sum $x+1$ is divided by 2. A fraction bar groups what is above it, like a bracket. The division by 2 applies to the whole sum, so you undo it first: multiply both sides by 2.

$$x+1 = 10$$

$$x = 9$$

After the division is undone, the sum is left and you subtract 1. Check the answer: $\frac{9+1}{2} = 5$.

Compare this with $\frac{x}{2}+1 = 5$. There only the $x$ is halved, and the answer is 8. The fraction bar tells you what is being divided. Read it before you start solving.