Calculating the Percentage- How to Determine What One Number Represents in Relation to Another

Understanding what percentage one number is of another is a fundamental concept in mathematics and data analysis. It allows us to compare and express the relationship between two numbers in a more relatable and understandable manner. Whether it’s calculating the percentage of sales growth, determining the percentage of a class that passed an exam, or simply finding out what percentage one number represents in a larger set, this concept is widely applicable in various fields and everyday life.

In this article, we will explore the methods and formulas used to calculate what percentage one number is of another. We will also discuss real-life examples and provide a step-by-step guide to help you master this essential skill.

To calculate what percentage one number is of another, you can use the following formula:

Percentage = (Part / Whole) 100

Where “Part” is the number you want to find the percentage of, and “Whole” is the total number or set that the “Part” is a part of.

Let’s take a simple example to illustrate this formula. Suppose you scored 80 out of 100 in a math test. To find out what percentage your score represents, you would use the formula as follows:

Percentage = (80 / 100) 100 = 80%

This means that your score of 80 is 80% of the total score (100).

Now, let’s consider a real-life scenario. Imagine you have a budget of $500, and you want to allocate 20% of it for groceries. To determine how much money you should spend on groceries, you can use the percentage formula:

Percentage = (Part / Whole) 100

In this case, the “Part” is the amount you want to allocate for groceries, and the “Whole” is your total budget.

Percentage = (20 / 100) 500 = $100

So, you should allocate $100 for groceries, which is 20% of your $500 budget.

To summarize, calculating what percentage one number is of another involves dividing the part by the whole and then multiplying the result by 100. This concept is widely used in various fields and can help us make informed decisions based on data and comparisons. By understanding and applying this formula, you can easily determine the percentage relationship between two numbers in any given scenario.