➖ Simplification Calculator
Reduce fractions and ratios to their simplest form (lowest terms).
Enter Fraction to Simplify
Simplified Form
How to Simplify a Fraction?
Simplifying (or reducing) a fraction means making it as simple as possible. You do this by dividing the top number (numerator) and the bottom number (denominator) by the largest number that goes evenly into both of them.
The Largest Number is called the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD).
Example: Simplifying 24/36
- List the factors of 24: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24
- List the factors of 36: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12, 18, 36
- The highest common factor is 12 (This is the GCD).
- Divide the top by 12: 24 ÷ 12 = 2
- Divide the bottom by 12: 36 ÷ 12 = 3
- The simplified fraction is 2/3.
Simplifying Ratios
Did you know a ratio is just a fraction written sideways? If you need to simplify a ratio like 24:36, you just put the numbers into this calculator as a fraction (24/36). The calculator will simplify it to 2/3, which means your simplified ratio is 2:3.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an improper fraction be simplified? +
Yes! An improper fraction (where the top is bigger than the bottom, like 15/10) can be simplified the exact same way. 15/10 simplifies down to 3/2. If you need it turned into a Mixed Number, check out our Mixed Fraction Calculator.
What if the numerator is 0? +
If the numerator is 0 (and the denominator is not 0), the simplified fraction is simply 0. Zero divided by any number is always zero.
What if the GCD is 1? +
If the Greatest Common Divisor is 1, it means the fraction cannot be simplified any further. It is already in its simplest form (e.g., 5/7).