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A fraction is in simplest form if the greatest common factor (GCF) of its numerator and denominator is -- that is, if they share no common factors other than .
For example,
is in simplest form, since have no common factors other than . However,
is not in simplest form, since share a common factor of .
To reduce a fraction, divide both the numerator and denominator by the GCF. (This is also known as "writing a fraction in lowest terms".)
This is sometimes shown as "canceling" the common factors.
Note that the result is an equivalent fraction in simplest form.