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# How do you work out percentages?

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Percentages are found by dividing the given amount from the whole and multiplying the decimal result by 100. In most cases, you need a calculator to ensure the proper amount, especially with regards to decimal spaces.

1. Determine the given amount

Determine the given amount that defines the percentage that you are looking to calculate. For example, if you were given a problem statement that said seven eggs were taken out of a dozen, the given amount would be the seven eggs.

2. Divide the given by the total

Divide the given amount by the total to produce a decimal result. From the previous example, you would perform the following calculation: 7/12 = 0.5833. You can determine how many decimal spots you need in your calculation.

3. Multiply the result by 100

Multiply the decimal result by 100 to get the percentage amount. This can also be done by moving the decimal two spaces to the right. Performing either of these actions with the previous calculation produces an answer of 58.33 percent.

4. Finding the amounts with the given percentage

If you are given the percentage and one of the amounts, you may find the other amount by rearranging the formula. Using the previous example, if you were given the decimal and the total, you would set up the equation as follows: x/12 = 0.5833. You would rearrange the equation and solve as shown: x = 12(0.5833) = 7.

## Similar Questions

• A:

A calculator is always helpful when determining percentages, but you can easily compute percentages without a calculator. A pencil and paper might be helpful as you do this.

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No one person invented percentages. The concept developed throughout history. In Ancient Rome mathematical computation were expressed in fractions of 100. This concept later evolved into percentages.

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A percentage is a math term that allows for a comparison of one amount in relation to another. Computing a percentage involves division and simple decimal conversion, according to Calculator Soup.