Rational Expression Simplifier Calculator

This Rational Expression Simplifier Calculator helps you simplify rational expressions step by step. First factor the numerator and denominator, then cancel any common factors while keeping domain restrictions in mind. After that, write the simplified result in its cleanest form. It is a simple way to check answers, understand rational expression simplification, and practise basic algebra step by step.

Step-by-step method

1. If it is a complex fraction, rewrite it by multiplying by the reciprocal.
2. Factor the numerator and denominator (only if something factors).
3. State the restrictions (values that make any original denominator equal 0).
4. Cancel common factors (factors only, not individual terms).
5. Write the final simplified form with the restrictions.

Example 1: (x^2−9)/(x^2−x−6)

Step 1 - Factor the numerator and denominator (only if something factors).

In this problem: Factor the numerator and denominator (no cancelling yet).

Step 2 - State the restrictions (values that make any original denominator equal 0).

In this problem: Find the values that make any original denominator equal 0. These are not allowed.

Step 3 - Cancel common factors (factors only, not individual terms).

In this problem: Cancel only identical factors that appear in both the numerator and denominator.

Final answer: x + 3/x + 2, x ≠ −2, x ≠ 3

Example 2: (x^2−16)/(x−4)

Step 1 - Factor the numerator and denominator (only if something factors).

In this problem: Factor the numerator and denominator (no cancelling yet).

Step 2 - State the restrictions (values that make any original denominator equal 0).

In this problem: Find the values that make any original denominator equal 0. These are not allowed.

Step 3 - Cancel common factors (factors only, not individual terms).

In this problem: Cancel only identical factors that appear in both the numerator and denominator.

Final answer: x + 4, x ≠ 4