How to Calculate Percentages
Percentages are everywhere — from shopping discounts to tax rates to statistics. Understanding percentage calculations helps you make better financial decisions.
The Three Core Percentage Formulas
- Find X% of Y:
Result = (X ÷ 100) × Y - X is what % of Y:
Percentage = (X ÷ Y) × 100 - Percentage change:
Change = ((New - Old) ÷ |Old|) × 100
Real-World Percentage Examples
- Sales tax: 7% sales tax on a $50 item = $3.50
- Discount: 20% off a $80 jacket saves $16
- Grade: Scored 45/50 on a test = 90%
- Salary increase: $50,000 → $55,000 is a 10% raise