Simplify the Fraction 21/14 Using a Factor of 7

When simplifying fractions, you must divide both parts by the same number to keep the fraction's value unchanged. Think of it like cutting a pizza - if you cut both the pieces you have AND the total pieces by the same amount, you still have the same portion!

Look for numbers that divide evenly into both 21 and 14. Since $21 = 7 \times 3$ and $14 = 7 \times 2$, we know 7 works perfectly!

Yes! The numbers 3 and 2 share no common factors except 1, so $\frac{3}{2}$ is in its simplest form. It's also equal to 1.5 if you need a decimal.

You could use smaller factors like 1, but using the greatest common factor (GCF) gets you to the simplified form in one step. Using 7 (the GCF of 21 and 14) is the most efficient approach.

If the numerator and denominator share no common factors except 1, then the fraction is already in simplest form. Not all fractions can be simplified further!