This study notes covers Worked Example 1: Simplifying Ratios within Ratio Basics for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Ratio Basics in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 7 of 15 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Worked Example 1: Simplifying Ratios
Simplify the ratio 24:36
Solution
Find HCF(24, 36) = 12
24 ÷ 12 = 2
36 ÷ 12 = 3
Answer: 2:3
Practice questions for Ratio Basics
Write the ratio 12:18 in its simplest form.
Explain the difference between the ratio 3:5 and the ratio 5:3.
Quick recall flashcards
Order in Ratios
Order MATTERS!
Boys:Girls = 3:5 means:
• 3 boys for every 5 girls
Girls:Boys = 5:3 means:
• 5 girls for every 3 boys
Different meanings!
What is a ratio?
A comparison of quantities of the same kind
Written as a:b or a/b
Example: 3:5 means '3 parts to 5 parts'