GCSE MATHS PRACTICE
GCSE Ratio Questions
A ratio compares quantities in a fixed order. Simplify a ratio by dividing every part by the same common factor. To share a total, add the ratio parts and find the value of one part first. If one amount is known, use its matching ratio part instead. These four questions focus on core ratio skills, rather than the whole proportion course.
Updated 8 October 2026
Worked example
Share £96 between Amira and Ben in the ratio 5 : 3.
- There are 5 + 3 = 8 equal parts altogether.
- One part is worth £96 ÷ 8 = £12.
- Amira receives 5 × £12 = £60; Ben receives 3 × £12 = £36. Check that £60 + £36 = £96.
Answer: Amira £60; Ben £36
Practice questions
- 1
Simplify the ratio 28 : 42.
- 2
Share £84 in the ratio 3 : 4.
- 3
Red counters : blue counters = 5 : 8. There are 35 red counters. How many blue counters are there?
- 4
A drink is made with concentrate and water in the ratio 2 : 7. How much concentrate is needed for 1.8 litres of the drink? Give your answer in millilitres.
Show answers
- 1. 2 : 3
- 2. £36 and £48, in that order
- 3. 56 blue counters
- 4. 400 ml
Common mistakes
- Changing only one part — Divide every part by the same factor when simplifying.
- Dividing by one ratio number — When sharing a total, divide by the sum of the parts.
- Reversing the order — Match each amount to the quantity named in that position.