Look at the fraction to see if it can be simplified. It can be if both the denominator (the bottom number) and the numerator (the top number) can be divided by the same number. For example: 1/2 cannot be simplified but 2/4 can.
Write the fraction down. For example, 2/4. Figure out which number both 2 and 4 can be divided by. This is also known as finding the common factor. In this case, both numbers can be divided by 2. So, the common factor of the fraction is 2.
Write out the numerator (2) the division symbol (/) and the number it will be divided by (2). Follow this will an = symbol. It will look like this: 2/2=. Work out the problem. 2 divided by 2 equals 1. Your new numerator is 1.
Write out the denominator in the same manner as Step 3. It will look like this: 4/2=. Solve the problem: 4 divided by 2 equals 2. Your new denominator is 2.
Put these numbers into your new, simplified fraction: 2/4=1/2. 1/2 is the simplified version of 2/4.