Keep the same amount.
The 3-Step Method
1Find a fraction.
Start with any fraction.
2Find a common factor.
Find the biggest number that divides both the top and the bottom.
3Divide top and bottom.
Divide the numerator and denominator by that factor.
Worked Example
Simplify each fraction.
Watch Out! Common Mistakes
This is still the same fraction. You must use a factor that makes the numbers smaller.
This is wrong. Always divide the top and bottom by the same number.
You can simplify more!
Keep going until the only common factor is 1.
Check Your Understanding
⬇ Cheat Sheet
- Find a fraction.
- Find the biggest common factor of the top and bottom.
- Divide both by that factor.
- Keep going until the only common factor is 1.
Answers: 23, 35, 35
📖 Continue Your Journey
Quick summary
- Simplifying means making the numbers smaller while keeping the value the same: 2/6 = 1/3.
- Find the biggest number that divides into both the top and the bottom (the highest common factor).
- Divide the numerator and the denominator by that same number.
- Keep simplifying until the only common factor left is 1.
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean to simplify a fraction?
Simplifying (or reducing) a fraction means writing it in its simplest form — the same value with the smallest possible whole numbers. For example, 4/8 simplifies to 1/2.
How do you simplify a fraction step by step?
Find the biggest number that divides exactly into both the numerator and the denominator, then divide both by it. Repeat until the only common factor is 1.
Why do children simplify fractions?
Answers in their simplest form are easier to compare and are expected in Year 5–6 work and 11+ exams. Simplifying also builds times-table and factor fluency.
What is a common mistake when simplifying fractions?
Dividing the top and bottom by different numbers, or stopping too early — for example leaving 4/8 as 2/4 instead of finishing at 1/2.
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