Free simplifying fractions worksheets

Simplifying a fraction means dividing the numerator and the denominator by the same number until they share no factor but 1. It is a skill children need every time they add, compare or report a fraction, and one that goes wrong in predictable ways: dividing only the top, stopping too early, or not spotting the shared factor at all. These eight worksheets take it in steps. The first three sheets each use one kind of factor (2, then 3 or 5, then mixed), so the divisibility clue is always the same on a page. Then comes the greatest common factor method with factor lists to fill in, a yes-or-no check for lowest terms, improper fractions to mixed numbers, and two sheets that use simplifying for something: comparing and testing equivalence. Every sheet has a worked example and an answer key on page 2.

What's in this set

1. Divide by 2. Sixteen fractions with even numerator and denominator; halve both, and again if needed.
2. Divide by 3 or 5. Sixteen fractions; the digit-sum and last-digit clues find the factor.
3. Simplify to lowest terms. Sixteen fractions with shared factors from 2 to 6; keep dividing until nothing is shared.
4. The greatest common factor. Ten fractions with boxes to list the factors of both numbers, circle the GCF and divide once.
5. Is it in lowest terms? Sixteen fractions to judge yes or no; fix the ones that are not.
6. Improper fractions to mixed numbers. Twelve improper fractions to divide into whole and part, then simplify the part.
7. Simplify, then compare. Eight pairs to reduce first and compare with <, > or =.
8. Equivalent or not? Twelve pairs; simplify both to see whether they name the same amount.

Every result on these pages has a denominator of 12 or less, so children can check answers against the fractions worksheets pictures and the fraction wall.

Frequently asked questions

What grade are these simplifying fractions worksheets for?

Grades 4 to 6. Fourth graders meet simplifying through equivalent fractions (4.NF.A.1); fifth grade uses it in every fraction operation (5.NF); sixth graders review it before ratios. Sheets 1 and 2 suit grade 4, sheets 3 to 8 grades 5 and 6.

What is the difference between simplifying and reducing?

None. Simplifying, reducing and writing in lowest terms all mean dividing numerator and denominator by their common factors until only 1 is shared. The fraction's value does not change; only the numbers do.

Do the worksheets have answer keys?

Yes, all eight, on page 2 of each PDF. The GCF sheet's key also lists the factors of every numerator and denominator.

Should children always divide by the greatest common factor?

It is fastest, but dividing by any shared factor and repeating is just as correct. Young children often prefer halving repeatedly; let them, then introduce the GCF as the shortcut once they see the repeated steps.

More fractions practice

The equivalent fractions worksheets are the other side of this skill (multiplying up instead of dividing down). Simplifying is used on every answer in the adding, subtracting and multiplying and dividing fractions sets, and the mixed numbers worksheets practice the improper-to-mixed step on its own. Start at the fractions worksheets hub if the pictures are still needed, and use the division facts worksheets if finding factors is slow.