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Fractions & Mixed Numbers • Lesson 4 ⏱ 6 min read 📅 Updated Nov 2026

How to Simplify (Reduce) Fractions to Lowest Terms

Master two foolproof methods to reduce any fraction to its simplest form using prime factors and the Greatest Common Factor (GCF).

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Watch 6/8 Reduce to 3/4

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Core Skill

Simplifying (or reducing) a fraction means rewriting it using the smallest whole numbers possible without changing its value. It makes math cleaner and easier to understand!

18 24 ÷ 6 (GCF) ÷ 6 (GCF) = 3 4 LOWEST TERMS ✓
Simplifying Fractions: Divide Both Numerator and Denominator by their Greatest Common Factor (6)

Method 1: The GCF Shortcut (One-Step Reduction)

Find the Greatest Common Factor (GCF) of the numerator and denominator, then divide both numbers by it:

Example: Reduce 18/24 to Lowest Terms

Factors of 18: 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 18
Factors of 24: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24
The Greatest Common Factor (GCF) is 6.

18 ÷ 624 ÷ 6 = 34

Method 2: The Step-by-Step Halving Method

If you cannot spot the GCF immediately, keep dividing by small prime numbers (2, 3, 5):

  • Both numbers even? Divide by 2: 36/48 ÷ 2 = 18/24.
  • Still even? Divide by 2 again: 18/24 ÷ 2 = 9/12.
  • Odd numbers? Divide by 3: 9/12 ÷ 3 = 3/4 (Done!).
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Solved Step-by-Step Examples:Simplify 18/24Simplify 36/48
Your Turn!

Check Your Understanding (3 Quick Questions)

Score: 0 / 3

Question 1: What is 12/18 simplified to lowest terms?

Question 2: When is a fraction in its simplest form?

Question 3: What is 25/100 reduced to lowest terms?