Final answer:
The first step in adding fractions is to find a common denominator. Once you have a common denominator, you can multiply the numerators and simplify the fraction if possible.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in adding fractions is to find a common denominator. This is necessary because fractions can only be added or subtracted if they have the same denominator. So, if the fractions have different denominators, you need to find a common multiple of the two denominators and use that as the new denominator for both fractions.
Once you have a common denominator, you can multiply the numerators of the fractions and place the product over the common denominator. Finally, if possible, simplify the resulting fraction by dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor.
Therefore, the correct answer is option A) Find a common denominator.