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Math

Ratio Simplifier

Reduce a two-part whole-number ratio and see each part’s share of the total.

Exact method explained belowEditable inputs

Set up your calculation

Runs on your device

SOLUTION

Your result

Let’s calculate.

Use the Calculate button to see your result.

Review the method below for assumptions and conventions.

How to use this tool

  1. Enter first part, second part.
  2. Select Calculate to view the result.
  3. Check the method and assumptions below before using the result.

The method, explained

Divide both parts by their greatest common divisor. A part’s percentage of the combined total is part ÷ (a + b) × 100.

A WORKED EXAMPLE

12:18 simplifies to 2:3. The first part is 40% of the combined total.

What to keep in mind

Use nonnegative whole numbers with a positive second part. A part-to-part ratio is different from a part-to-whole fraction.

Common questions

Is 2:3 the same as 2/3 of the whole?

No. In a 2:3 split, the first part is 2 out of 5 total parts.

Can the first part be zero?

Yes. For example, 0:5 simplifies to 0:1.

Methodology maintained by ClarityKit. How these tools are built and checked.