How to Change Ratios to Fractions

Ratios are a comparison of two quantities. Usually ratios are written with a fraction bar, in which there is a numerator and a denominator. On the computer, ratios can appear with a solidus, as in ¾. And sometimes ratios can be presented in words, as in three to four, or with a colon, as in 3:4. With such variety, it is a good idea to know how to change ratios to fractions because it is the form used to solve problems. Read the following steps to learn how to change ratios to fractions.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pencil
• Calculator

Instructions

1. Change word ratios to fractions by using the following model. There are 7 loaves of white bread for every 14 loaves of pumpernickel. Write the ratio as 7/14.

2. Change colon ratios to fractions with this example in mind. A baker mixes water and flour using a ratio of 2:5. Write the ratio in a fraction form as 2/5.

3. Know that ratios follow the same rules that apply to fractions. Remember, just as with fractions, ratios should be reduced to their simplest form.

4. Take note of the fact that ratios compare quantities that are alike. Do not try to compare yards with feet. Do compare the two units of measurement by converting yards to feet instead.

5. Practice changing ratios to fractions as much as possible. Be able to recognize the different ways ratios are written; it will make it much easier to change ratios to fractions.