How to calculate a percentage
A percentage is a fraction of 100. To find X% of a number, multiply the number by X and divide by 100. To find what percent one number is of another, divide the first by the second and multiply by 100. For percentage change, take the difference, divide by the original value, and multiply by 100.
X% of N = N × X ÷ 100 · A is (A ÷ B × 100)% of B · Change = (New − Old) ÷ Old × 100
Everyday uses
- Marks and exam scores (got 45 out of 180 → what percent).
- Discounts, tips, taxes and interest.
- Salary hikes and price changes (₹800 → ₹1,000 is a 25% rise).
Frequently asked questions
How do I add a percentage to a number?
Multiply by (1 + percent ÷ 100). For example, ₹2,000 + 15% = 2000 × 1.15 = ₹2,300.
What does percentage change mean?
It shows how much a value grew or fell relative to its starting value — positive for an increase, negative for a decrease.