- Common factors
- 1, 2, 3, 6
How it works
Shared group sizes offer different choices
For 24 and 36 items, both 6 and 12 are common group sizes. Groups of 12 minimize the total group count; groups of 6 create more smaller groups. The full factor list preserves both options.
Reading the complete list of common factors
Common factors are whole-number divisors shared by the entered values. The largest item has a special role as the greatest common factor, but smaller factors may be useful when choosing a grouping size. Check the original values when verifying the list: each reported factor should divide every relevant input without a remainder. Common factors should not be confused with common multiples.
Whole numbers: formula and assumptions
gcd(a,b) = gcd(b, a mod b); lcm(a,b) = |a × b| / gcd(a,b).
The Euclidean algorithm finds the greatest common divisor. Factor lists contain positive factors.
Worked example
Using the Whole numbers example:
- Whole numbers
- 12, 18, 24
gcd(a,b) = gcd(b, a mod b); lcm(a,b) = |a × b| / gcd(a,b).
Example result
Common factors: 1, 2, 3, 6
These are illustrative inputs. Change the values to explore a different scenario.
Formula references
References explain the underlying methods; they do not imply endorsement or individual professional review of Finflo.
Common questions
How are common factors related to the GCF?
Every common positive factor divides the greatest common factor. Listing the divisors of the GCF identifies the shared factors.
What are the common factors of 12 and 18?
They are 1, 2, 3 and 6. The greatest common factor is 6.
Prepared by Finflo. See our methodology and editorial policy.