Find a percent of a number by converting the
percent to a fraction and multiplying.
Example
Convert the percent to a fraction, then multiply. A percent is just a fraction out of one hundred, so finding a percent of a number means taking that fraction of it. Rewriting the percent as a fraction turns the word 'of' into multiplication, which is why the same procedure works for any percentage of any amount.
highlighted = computed this step
Step 1 — Set up
Set up the relationship.
30% of 80
Step 2 — Convert percent
Convert percent: 30 / 100 = 3/10.
30÷100=103
Step 3 — Multiply
Multiply by the rate: 80 x 3/10 = 24.
80×103=24
Step 4 — Check the bar
Check the bar: 24/80 = 3/10.
8024=103
Step 5 — Result
Read the final result.
24
percent-of-numberTo find p% of a number b: - Convert: p/100 = fraction in lowest terms. - Multiply: b · fraction = part.