How to Calculate Percentage
Use these steps to calculate percentage, without a calculator.
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You Will Need
- A pen or pencil
- Paper
Steps
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Step 1
Write a division problem
Write a division problem by dividing the unknown percentage of the total by the total.
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When you are calculating a percentage less than 100, always divide the smaller number by the larger number.
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Step 2
Complete the division
Complete the computation using long division. The result – or quotient – will include a decimal.
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Step 3
Multiply by 100
Multiply the resulting quotient by 100 to convert it to a percentage. This is the percentage of the original amount.
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Move the decimal point in the quotient two places to the right to multiply by 100.
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Step 4
Pick up the check
Pick up the check. You no longer have an excuse to be a lousy tipper!
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Did you know? The percent symbol can be traced back to the 15th century, when it was used in business transactions.
