Simple machines are basic machines that people have been using for centuries to help them in their daily chores. They include inclined planes (ramps), wedges, levers, wheels and axles, gears, and pulleys. Today we have many more complicated machines, yet many of them are still based on these 6 simple machines. You, no doubt, use some of these machines on a regular basis.

This diagram shows the 6 types of simple machines. These 6 simple machines are used together to form complex machines.