Simplifying Ratios

Divide both sides by their greatest common divisor. 12:18 simplifies to 2:3 (dividing by 6). Ratios behave like fractions — multiply or divide both sides by the same number and the relationship is unchanged.

Sharing in a Ratio

To share £500 in the ratio 2:3 — add the parts (2+3=5), divide the amount by total parts (£500÷5=£100 per part), then multiply: 2 parts = £200, 3 parts = £300. This appears constantly in inheritance splits, recipe scaling, paint mixing and partnership profit shares.

Real-World Ratio Uses

• Maps: 1:25,000 means 1cm = 250m
• Mortar mix: 1:4 cement to sand
• Screens: 16:9 aspect ratio
• Cordial: 1:9 dilution