How to simplify a fraction
Method
Divide both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD) Example: 6/8 — GCD of 6 and 8 is 2 — 6÷2 / 8÷2 = 3/4 A fraction is fully simplified (in "lowest terms") once its numerator and denominator share no common factor other than 1. Dividing both by their GCD in one step always gets there directly, without needing to try smaller factors first.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I simplify a fraction?
Find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator, then divide both by it. 6/8 simplifies to 3/4 since their GCD is 2.
How do I know when a fraction is fully simplified?
When the numerator and denominator have no common factor other than 1 — their greatest common divisor is exactly 1.
What if the simplified fraction is a whole number?
Then it's shown as just that whole number — 100/25 simplifies all the way down to 4.