How do you simplify to lowest terms?

Answer 1

Generally this involves eliminating redundant factors. For example, in fractions if a factor is common between the numerator (top) and denominator (bottom) of the fraction, it can be eliminated. Examples:

3/6 = 1/2.

14/21 = 1/3.

Further, if a factor is present in every term of an expression, it can be eliminating. For example:

2x + 8y - 12z = 26

should be reduced to:

x + 4y - 6z = 13.