Ratio Calculator Guide: Formula & Worked Example
Short answer
Simplify a ratio and scale it to a new value. In the fixed example below, simplified ratio is 2 : 3. Your answer depends on the inputs and assumptions you choose.
Formula
Result = Ratio Calculator calculation using a, b, scale a to
The inputs are a, b, scale a to. Use the input scale shown beside each field and keep time periods and units consistent. Only round the final result for display.
Worked example
- A
- 16
- B
- 24
- Scale A to
- 10
- Simplified ratio: 2 : 3
- Scaled: 10 : 15
- A / B: 0.666667
Understanding the result
Simplify a ratio and scale it to a new value. Start with the base example, then replace each value with the figure that matches your situation.
A
The example uses 16 for a. This is an illustration, not a recommended value. Keep the unit and time period shown by the field.
B
The example uses 24 for b. This is an illustration, not a recommended value. Keep the unit and time period shown by the field.
Scale A to
The example uses 10 for scale a to. This is an illustration, not a recommended value. Keep the unit and time period shown by the field.
What the comparison means
The comparison changes only a, keeping every other example input fixed. This isolates that input's effect on the primary result. It does not predict future outcomes.
Check units, date boundaries and rounding before using the answer in a report or a practical measurement.
Comparison
| Scenario | Input | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Lower input | A: 12.8 | Simplified ratio: 1 : 1.875 |
| Base example | A: 16 | Simplified ratio: 2 : 3 |
| Higher input | A: 19.2 | Simplified ratio: 1 : 1.25 |
Common mistakes
- Using the wrong units for a.
- Comparing results while changing more than one input at a time.
- Check units, date boundaries and rounding before using the answer in a report or a practical measurement.
Checklist
- Confirm a.
- Confirm b.
- Confirm scale a to.
- Check the result against your source or provider.
Calculators Percentage Editorial Team
Calculator guides from the Calculators Percentage team. These introductory examples are educational, not professional advice.
Last reviewed:
Check units, date boundaries and rounding before using the answer in a report or a practical measurement.