Rule 10:
To reduce a simple fraction, follow the following three steps:
Example: Reduce the fraction .
Answer. Factor the numerator and factor the denominator and look for the fractions in the mix that have a value of 1.
The fraction has been reduced into the equivalent fraction
which can also be written as
or
.
Now prove to yourself with your calculator that both fractions are equivalent. When you divided -42 by 50, you will get the same answer as when you divide -21 by 25.