Learn how to calculate percentage step by step using simple formulas and examples. Percentage is one of the most important mathematical concepts used in everyday life, from exam results to shopping discounts.
If you are wondering how to calculate percentage, simply divide the value by total and multiply by 100.
To calculate percentage, use this formula:
For example, if you score 72 marks out of 90:
(72 ÷ 90) × 100 = 80%
This means you scored 80%.
What is Percentage?
The word percentage means “per hundred”. It is used to express a number as a fraction of 100.
- 50% means 50 out of 100
- 25% means 25 out of 100
- 100% means the whole value
Percentages make it easy to compare values.
Percentage Calculation Formula
The standard formula to calculate percentage is:
- Part = value you want to convert
- Total = overall value
Example 1: Calculate Percentage from Marks
A student scored 72 marks out of 90:
(72 ÷ 90) × 100 = 80%
Example 2: Find Percentage of a Number
Find 20% of 500:
(20 ÷ 100) × 500 = 100
Example 3: Shopping Discount
If a product costs ₹2000 and discount is 15%:
Discount = (15 ÷ 100) × 2000 = ₹300
Final price = ₹1700
How to Calculate Percentage Increase
Formula:
Example: ₹500 → ₹650 → Increase = 30%
How to Calculate Percentage Decrease
Formula:
Example: ₹800 → ₹600 → Decrease = 25%
Real-Life Uses of Percentage
- Shopping discounts
- Exam results
- Profit and loss
- Bank interest
- Data comparison
Quick Tricks to Calculate Percentage Faster
- 10% = divide by 10
- 50% = half
- 25% = divide by 4
- 75% = 50% + 25%
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wrong total value
- Forgetting × 100
- Confusing increase and decrease
Use Our Percentage Calculator
To make calculations faster, use our calculator available on this page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you calculate percentage?
Divide the part by total and multiply by 100.
What is 20% of 100?
20
How to calculate percentage increase?
((New – Old) ÷ Old) × 100
Why is percentage important?
It helps compare values easily.
Can I calculate percentage without a calculator?
Yes, using shortcuts like 10%, 50%, and 25%.