Ratio Simplifier

Simplify any ratio to its lowest terms using the greatest common divisor, showing the GCD, decimal, and scale factor.

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Enter Ratio

First value (a)

Second value (b)

Simplified Ratio
3 : 2
Greatest Common Divisor
4
Decimal Equivalent
1.5
Original Ratio
12 : 8

Both sides were divided by 4 to simplify.

Also in Ratios & Averages

Arithmetic

Ratio simplifier: reduce any ratio to its simplest form

A ratio simplifier reduces a ratio to its lowest terms by dividing both parts by their greatest common divisor. It shows the GCD, decimal equivalent, and scale factor, making it easy to compare and work with ratios in recipes, maps, and proportions.

How to simplify a ratio

Find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the two numbers, then divide both parts by it. For example, 12:8 has a GCD of 4, so it simplifies to 3:2.

A ratio is already in simplest form when the GCD of its parts is 1 — meaning they share no common factor other than 1.

Frequently asked questions

Is simplifying a ratio the same as simplifying a fraction?

Yes — the process is identical. Both use the GCD to reduce to lowest terms. The notation differs (3:2 vs 3/2) but the math is the same.

Can a simplified ratio have a zero?

A ratio like 0:5 simplifies to 0:1. However, 0:0 is undefined and cannot be simplified.

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