Whether the load is us, or something that we are carrying, we use the ladder to raise or lower the load. Angling the ladder closer to the horizontal increases the length of the ladder needed, but it greatly increases the mechanical advantage.

Is a ladder a simple machine?

Inclined planes are simple machines used to make work easier. Ramps, ladders, and staircases are all inclined planes.

How do stairs make work easier?

In order to get to a higher level or another floor in a building or home, stairs become a plane traveled to accommodate the climb. Less energy is needed to walk the stairs than it would takes to climb up. Similarly, escalators are inclined planes that propel a person or object up a distance without exerting energy.