Ratios

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Study the introductory material on ratios. The processes for the calculation of ratio problems are listed in steps. Memorize the steps for each calculation before beginning the work sheet. Review previous chapters on fractions, decimals, and percents as necessary. Complete the work sheet at the end of this chapter, which provides for extensive practice in the manipulation of ratios. Check your answers. If you have difficulties, go back and review the steps for that type of calculation. When you feel ready to evaluate your learning, take the first posttest. Check your answers. An acceptable score as indicated on the posttest signifies that you are ready for the next chapter. An unacceptable score signifies a need for further study before taking the second posttest.

A ratio is another way of indicating a relationship between two numbers. In other words, it is another way to express a fraction. A ratio indicates division. The numerator is the first number listed.

EXAMPLE 1: ¾ written as a ratio is 3 : 4

In reading a ratio, one reads the colon as “is to.” The example would then be read as “three is to four.”

EXAMPLE 2: 7 written as a ratio is 7 : 1

To express any whole number as a ratio, the number following the colon is always 1. The example would be read as “seven is to one.”