What Is a Percentage?
A percentage represents a part of a whole, expressed in hundredths. This foundational math concept is used globally in finance (profits, taxes), shopping (discounts), statistics (demographic data), and daily tasks (restaurant tips).
Percentage Formula Examples
The formula to calculate a percentage is:
Percentage (%) = (Part / Whole) × 100
Example:
- If 25 out of 100 marbles are red, red marbles make up 25% of the total.
- A 20% discount on a $50 item saves you $10 ($50 × 0.20).
Why Use Our Percentage Calculator?
Our free online tool simplifies complex calculations, saving you time and reducing errors. Key features include:
- Find a percentage of a number (e.g., 15% of $200)
- Calculate percentage increase/decrease (e.g., price changes)
- Determine "X is what percent of Y?" (e.g., test scores)
- Add or subtract percentages (e.g., tax, tips)
- Compare values (e.g., "How much more is A than B?")
Practical Applications
- Shopping: Calculate discounts during sales.
Example: A $120 jacket with 30% off costs $84 ($120 – $36). - Dining: Compute tips quickly (15%, 18%, or 20%).
Example: A $75 bill with a 15% tip = $86.25. - Finance: Track profit margins, tax rates, or loan interest.
- Academics: Analyze grades, statistical data, or growth rates.
FAQ
Q: How do I calculate 20% of a number?
A: Multiply the number by 0.20. Example: 20% of 80 = 80 × 0.20 = 16.
Q: What’s the formula for percentage increase?
A: [(New Value – Old Value) / Old Value] × 100.
Example: If a stock rises from $50 to $65, the increase is 30%.
Q: Is this calculator mobile-friendly?
A: Yes! Use it seamlessly on phones, tablets, or desktops.