How To Calculate A Percentage And Solve Percent Problems

Percentages and fractions are related concepts in the world of mathematics. Each concept represents a piece of a larger unit. Fractions may be converted into percentages by first converting the fraction into a decimal number. You may then perform the necessary mathematical function, such as addition or subtraction, before converting the final decimal number into a percentage.

Step 1

Use the calculator to divide the numerator (top number) of the first fraction by the denominator (bottom number) of the first fraction. Write this decimal number down.

Step 2

Divide the numerator of the second fraction by the denominator of the second fraction and write this decimal number down.

Step 3

Perform the required mathematical function with the two decimal numbers. For example, if you are adding 1/4 and 1/5 together, these would convert into 0.25 and 0.20 respectively. Add 0.25 to 0.20 to get 0.45.

Step 4

Multiply the resulting decimal number by 100 to obtain the percentage. For the example above, 0.45 multiplied by 100 equals 45 percent.