Syntax
GCD(number1, [number2, ...])
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| number1 | Parameter of the GCD function. |
| [number2 | (Optional.) Parameter of the GCD function. |
| ...] | Parameter of the GCD function. |
Examples
Simplify a fraction
Formula
=GCD(48, 36)
Returns 12. To simplify 48/36, divide both by GCD: 48/12 = 4, 36/12 = 3, so 48/36 = 4/3.
Three numbers
Formula
=GCD(24, 60, 84)
Returns 12. The largest number that divides evenly into 24, 60, and 84 is 12.
Tile sizing
Formula
=GCD(180, 240)
Returns 60. A 180×240 cm floor can be tiled perfectly with 60×60 cm tiles (the largest square tile that fits with no cutting).
Common Errors
#NUM!
Negative numbers return #NUM!. GCD only works with non-negative integers.
#VALUE!
Non-numeric arguments return #VALUE!.
Tips
Simplify fractions
Numerator/GCD and Denominator/GCD gives the simplified fraction. =A1/GCD(A1,B1) & "/" & B1/GCD(A1,B1) shows it as text.
Check if coprime
If GCD(a,b) = 1, the numbers are coprime (share no common factors). This matters in cryptography and gear ratios.
Accepts multiple arguments
GCD can take up to 255 arguments or a range. =GCD(A1:A10) finds the GCD of all 10 values at once.
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