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Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team
This calculator helps you simplify fractions to their simplest form. Whether you're studying math, cooking, or working with measurements, knowing how to reduce fractions is a valuable skill.
How to Use This Calculator
Using our fraction simplifier is straightforward:
- Enter the numerator (top number) of your fraction in the first field
- Enter the denominator (bottom number) of your fraction in the second field
- Click the "Simplify" button to calculate the simplified fraction
- View the result and see the step-by-step simplification process
The calculator will show you the simplified fraction and the greatest common divisor (GCD) used in the simplification process.
How Fraction Simplification Works
Simplifying a fraction involves dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). Here's the formula:
The GCD is the largest number that divides both the numerator and denominator without leaving a remainder. For example, the GCD of 12 and 18 is 6.
Note: The simplified fraction will always have a numerator and denominator that are co-prime (their GCD is 1).
Worked Examples
Example 1: Simplifying 8/12
Step 1: Find the GCD of 8 and 12 (which is 4)
Step 2: Divide numerator and denominator by 4
Step 3: Result is 2/3
Example 2: Simplifying 15/25
Step 1: Find the GCD of 15 and 25 (which is 5)
Step 2: Divide numerator and denominator by 5
Step 3: Result is 3/5
| Original Fraction | GCD | Simplified Fraction |
|---|---|---|
| 4/8 | 4 | 1/2 |
| 9/12 | 3 | 3/4 |
| 16/24 | 8 | 2/3 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a simplified fraction?
A simplified fraction is a fraction where the numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1. This means the fraction is in its simplest form.
How do I find the GCD of two numbers?
You can find the GCD by listing all the factors of each number and identifying the largest one that appears in both lists, or by using the Euclidean algorithm.
Can I simplify mixed numbers with this calculator?
No, this calculator only works with improper fractions. You would need to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions first.