A variable compression ratio apparatus with means to vary compression ratio of an internal combustion engine is provided. The variable compression ratio apparatus with reciprocating piston mechanism with extended piston offset of the invention has a rocker arm/lever assembly pivotally mounted on a crankpin of a crankshaft and a fulcrum which moves along only within confines of a pathway/guide. This confined pathway/guide itself can be either pivoted to swing from side to side on a pivot or can move only along a predefined path towards the crankshaft and away in its own defined tracks. A swing or move of the pathway/guide leads to a corresponding change in stroke positions of the piston within the cylinder. Such construction allows a simple and easy way to vary compression ratio of the engine. At the same time all benefits of the reciprocating piston mechanism with extended piston offset are preserved.