Simplify Fractions

Simplify a Fraction

A fraction is simplified when the numerator and denominator have no common factor greater than 1. In other words, you cannot divide both parts by the same whole number anymore.

Method

1. Find a common factor of the numerator and denominator.
2. Divide both the numerator and denominator by that factor.
3. Repeat until there is no common factor left.
4. Write the fraction in its lowest terms.

Example idea

If a fraction can be divided by 2, 3, 5, or another whole number, do that first. If more than one factor works, you can keep simplifying step by step or use the greatest common factor to simplify in one step.

Check your answer

• Make sure the numerator and denominator do not share any factor greater than 1.
• You can also compare the original fraction and your simplified fraction by dividing both by the same number; they should represent the same value.

Tip

If the fraction is already simplified, no reduction is possible. Leave it as it is unless a common factor exists.