Simplifying Ratios to Simplest Form: Step-by-Step Example
22 October 2026
Understanding how to simplify ratios is a key skill for 11+ maths. It helps your child compare quantities in the clearest way possible. This step-by-step example shows exactly what to do when faced with a ratio that needs to be written in its simplest form.
Worked example
Simplify the ratio 18:24.
Step 1: Find the highest common factor of 18 and 24. The highest common factor is 6.
Step 2: Divide both numbers by 6. 18 ÷ 6 = 3 and 24 ÷ 6 = 4.
Step 3: Write the new ratio. 18:24 simplifies to 3:4.
The correct answer is 3:4.
| Step | Value 1 | Value 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Original | 18 | 24 |
| Divide by 6 | 3 | 4 |
Now your child can spot when a ratio can be simplified and knows the steps to do it. Practising questions like this will build confidence for the 11+ and make maths.com uk style ratio problems feel much easier.
