Ratio Simplifier

Reduce two positive whole numbers using their greatest common divisor.

01 / INPUTS

whole
whole

02 / RESULT

Simplified ratio

2 : 3

Simplified ratio
2 : 3
Decimal
0.66666667

Calculation trace

  1. gcd(8, 12) = 4
    4
    Greatest common divisor
  2. 8 ÷ 4 : 12 ÷ 4 = 2 : 3
    2 : 3
    Simplified ratio
  3. 8 ÷ 12 = 0.666667
    0.66666667
    Decimal
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How it works

Both terms are divided by their greatest common divisor (GCD) to express the ratio in lowest terms, and the decimal value a ÷ b is also shown.

Assumptions & limits

  • Simplification uses the integer GCD of the two terms.
  • The second term must be non-zero for the decimal form.
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FAQ

What does the decimal mean?
It is the first term divided by the second — a 4:2 ratio is 2, meaning the first quantity is twice the second.
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Related calculators

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SOURCES

  • OpenStax, Rice University
    Prealgebra 2e

    Ratios and rates; reducing a ratio by dividing both terms by their greatest common divisor

    Accessed 2026-08-23