Fraction Calculator (Simplify Fractions)
This free fraction calculator helps you simplify fractions instantly. Enter a fraction, and it reduces to its simplest form by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). Perfect for students, teachers, and anyone working with fractions.
What Is a Fraction?
A fraction represents a part of a whole. It is written as numerator / denominator. The numerator shows how many parts you have, and the denominator shows how many equal parts make up a whole.
Example: 3/4 means three out of four equal parts.
Why Simplify Fractions?
Simplifying a fraction makes it easier to understand and work with. A fraction is simplified when the numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1.
Example: 12/16 can be simplified to 3/4 because both 12 and 16 are divisible by 4.
How to Simplify a Fraction
Steps to simplify:
Step 1: Find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of numerator and denominator.
Step 2: Divide both numerator and denominator by the GCD.
Step 3: Write the fraction in its simplest form.
Example:
Fraction: 18/24
GCD of 18 and 24 = 6
Simplified fraction: (18 ÷ 6) / (24 ÷ 6) = 3/4
How the Calculator Works
This fraction calculator automatically finds the GCD and divides numerator and denominator, giving the simplest fraction instantly. No manual calculations required.
Examples of Simplifying Fractions
1. 20/50 → GCD = 10 → 20 ÷ 10 / 50 ÷ 10 = 2/5
2. 45/60 → GCD = 15 → 45 ÷ 15 / 60 ÷ 15 = 3/4
3. 9/12 → GCD = 3 → 9 ÷ 3 / 12 ÷ 3 = 3/4
Fractions in Real Life
Fractions are everywhere: cooking recipes, measurements, construction, finances, and school assignments. Simplifying fractions makes calculations easier and faster.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is forgetting to divide both numerator and denominator by the same number.
Another mistake is ignoring negative signs: -6/8 simplifies to -3/4.
Important: Always divide both numerator and denominator by the same GCD.
Correct: A fraction with a larger denominator is not always smaller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fractions be negative?
Yes. Only the numerator or denominator is negative, never both.
Can decimals be simplified?
Decimals should first be converted to fractions before simplification.
Can a fraction be simplified to 1?
Yes, if the numerator equals the denominator, e.g., 5/5 = 1.
Conclusion
Simplifying fractions is an essential skill in math and daily life. This fraction calculator instantly simplifies fractions, saving time and avoiding errors. Perfect for students, teachers, and professionals.
Use it for homework, cooking, measurements, or any situation requiring fraction simplification.