What is simplifying fractions?

Simplifying (or reducing) a fraction means dividing the top and bottom by the same number until they share no common factor larger than 1. The value stays the same, but the fraction is written in its simplest form. Dividing by the greatest common factor does it in one step.

Examples

• 6/8 simplifies to 3/4 (divide both by 2).
• 10/20 simplifies to 1/2.
• 4/12 simplifies to 1/3.

Quick facts

• A fraction is in simplest form when 1 is the only number that divides both parts.
• Simplifying does not change the value, only how the fraction looks.