Actually, it is often easier to divide by factors other than the GCF as they will be smaller numbers.
All that dividing by the GCF does is simplify the fraction in one step as opposed to many steps.
I often find myself simplifying fractions by dividing by obvious smaller factors which means that when I do have to find a GCF (often to prove the fraction is in simplest form) it will be with smaller numbers as well (which is easier).
when you divide the numerator and denominator by the same factor
If you divide by the GCF, you will only have to do it once to produce the simplest form.
Find the Greatest Common Factor of the numerator and denominator, then divide the numerator by the GCF, and that is the new numerator. Divide the denominator by the GCF, and that is the new denominator.
how to find simplest form is: 1. Find the GCF of the numerator and denominator 2. Divide the numerator and denominator by the GCF
If the numerator and denominator of a fraction have a common factor (except for '1'), divide both numerator and denominator by their common factor. The fraction is in the simplest form when the numerator and denominator have no common factors.
simplifying the fraction
simplifying
You have to find the greatest common factor between the numerator and the denominator. Then you divide numerator and denominator by this greatest common factor. There are several methods to find the greatest common factor. Note that "dividing only once" is not necessarily to your advantage; it is easier to divide by ANY common factor you find, and then continue looking for additional factors.
You look for common factors in the numerator and the denominator, then divide both the numerator and the denominator by that common factor.
Find the greatest common factor between the numerator and the denominator, then divide the numerator by greatest common factor and then divide denominator by greatest common factor, for a new simplified fraction.
-- Find any common factor of the numerator and denominator, and divide numerator and denominator by it. -- Keep doing that until the numerator and denominator no longer have any common factor except ' 1 '. The fraction is then in its simplest form.
Divide the numerator and the denominator by their highest common factor.