How to Solve Ratio and Proportion — Step by Step Guide

Compare quantities and solve problems using ratios and proportions. This guide covers Class 6 to 7.

Step-by-Step Method

  1. 1

    Express the ratio in the form a:b. Make sure both quantities are in the same unit.

  2. 2

    Simplify the ratio by dividing both sides by their HCF.

  3. 3

    In a proportion a:b = c:d, the product of extremes equals the product of means: a × d = b × c.

  4. 4

    To find a missing value in a proportion, cross-multiply and solve.

  5. 5

    For dividing a quantity in a given ratio a:b: first part = (a/(a+b)) × total, second part = (b/(a+b)) × total.

Worked Example

Problem: Divide Rs 1500 in the ratio 2:3.

Solution: Total parts = 2 + 3 = 5. First share = (2/5) × 1500 = Rs 600. Second share = (3/5) × 1500 = Rs 900.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ✗

    Comparing quantities in different units without converting first.

  • ✗

    Writing the ratio in the wrong order.

  • ✗

    Confusing ratio with fraction — a ratio a:b does not mean a/b in all contexts.

  • ✗

    Not simplifying the ratio to its lowest terms.

Practice Ratio and Proportion on SparkEd

Get free chapter-wise practice questions aligned to your board:

CBSE Class 6 Ratio and ProportionICSE Class 7 Ratio and Proportion

Master Ratio and Proportion with Free Practice

30,000+ questions, AI solver for instant help, and printable worksheets. 100% free.

Start Practising FreePlay Zone (Class 1-5)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I solve Ratio and Proportion problems?
Express the ratio in the form a:b. Make sure both quantities are in the same unit. Simplify the ratio by dividing both sides by their HCF.
What are common mistakes in Ratio and Proportion?
Comparing quantities in different units without converting first. Writing the ratio in the wrong order.
Which class covers Ratio and Proportion?
Ratio and Proportion is typically taught in Class 6, 7. SparkEd has free practice for all these grades.
Where can I practise Ratio and Proportion for free?
SparkEd offers free chapter-wise practice for Ratio and Proportion aligned to CBSE, ICSE, and IB curricula. Visit sparkedmaths.com to start.

SparkEd Maths — sparked.coms@gmail.com — www.sparkedmaths.com