An inclined plane is a simple machine. An inclined plane is a ramp used to reduce the effort needed to raise or lower an object over a vertical height. It is easier to climb stairs to get to a second floor than to climb straight up a rope. It is easier to walk up a long, gentle hill than to climb up a short, steep hill. The following are examples of inclined planes: Loading ramp Stairs or wheelchair ramp Mountain road Threaded screw. The ancient Egyptians used inclined planes, or ramps, to move huge blocks of stone to build the pyramids. Ramp Wheel Chair Ramp Mountain Road & Screw Return to Science questions and answers for kids page. Professor Beaker's Learning Lab about Inclined Planes: Simple Machines