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Ratio Calculator

Free ratio calculator: enter any two numbers to simplify the ratio to lowest terms, plus the decimal value. Ideal for recipes, maps and homework.

About this tool

A ratio compares two quantities - 12:18 reads \u2018twelve to eighteen\u2019. Simplifying divides both sides by their greatest common divisor, so 12:18 becomes the cleaner 2:3.

Enter any two numbers and this ratio calculator reduces them to lowest terms and shows the decimal value too.

How to use

Type the two numbers and press Simplify Ratio. The tool finds the greatest common divisor, divides both numbers by it, and displays the simplified ratio alongside A divided by B as a decimal.

Decimals are rounded for display; very large numbers are rounded to whole numbers before simplifying.

The math behind it

Simplified ratio = (A / GCD) : (B / GCD), where GCD is the greatest common divisor found with Euclid\u2019s algorithm.

For example, 12 and 18 share GCD 6, giving 2:3 - the same relationship in its simplest form.

Frequently asked questions

What does simplifying a ratio mean?
It means dividing both numbers by their greatest common divisor so the ratio is in lowest terms. 12:18 simplifies to 2:3 - both describe the same relationship, but 2:3 is easier to read, scale and compare.
Where are ratios used in real life?
Everywhere: recipe scaling (2:3 flour to sugar), map scales, mixing paint or concrete, financial ratios, screen aspect ratios like 16:9, and sharing quantities fairly between people.
What is the difference between a ratio and a fraction?
A ratio 2:3 compares two separate quantities, while a fraction 2/3 is one number. They are linked though: in the ratio 2:3, the first quantity is 2/5 of the total. The decimal shown here (A divided by B) bridges the two views.

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