Understanding how to calculate the percentage between two numbers is a fundamental skill in various fields such as finance, statistics, and everyday problem-solving. In this tutorial, we will explore different methods to calculate percentages, providing clear explanations and numerous examples to ensure a thorough understanding.
Calculate Percent Between Two Numbers
There are different ways to calculate the percentage between two numbers. Let’s go over them one by one.
Also Read: How to Find the Percent of Two Numbers Via Coding in Python, JavaScript, Java, and C#
Method 1: Percentage Change Formula
The percentage change formula is a versatile method for calculating the percentage between two numbers. The formula is as follows:
Example 1:
Suppose the old value is 40 and the new value is 60. Using the formula:
This means there was a 50% increase from the old value to the new value.
Example 2:
If the old value is 75 and the new value is 50:
Here, the negative sign indicates a 33.33% decrease from the old value.
Method 2: Percentage of a Number
This method is useful when you need to find what percentage one number is of another. The formula is:
Example 3:
Let’s find out what percentage 25 is of 80:
So, 25 is approximately 31.25% of 80.
Method 3: Percentage Increase/Decrease
Calculating the percentage increase or decrease from one number to another involves a modified formula:
Example 4:
Suppose an item was originally priced at $120 and is now $150. The increase can be calculated as:
This indicates a 25% increase in price.
Example 5:
If the price decreased from $90 to $70:
The negative sign represents a 22.22% decrease.
Method 4: Using Proportions
Another way to calculate the percentage between two numbers is by using proportions. The formula is:
Example 6:
If you scored 75 out of 100 on a test:
This indicates that you scored 75% on the test.
Must Read: How to Find the Percent of Two Numbers: A Short Tutorial
Supplementary Information
Here are some more insights while you begin to calculate the percent between two numbers.
Understanding Positive and Negative Percentages:
- Positive percentages represent an increase, while negative percentages represent a decrease.
Percentage Points vs. Percentages:
- Be cautious not to confuse percentage points with percentages. Percentage points measure the difference between two percentages, not the percentage change itself.
Real-life Applications:
- Highlight how percentages are commonly used in real-life scenarios such as sales discounts, inflation rates, and population growth.
Common Mistakes:
- Address common mistakes like forgetting to multiply by 100 or misunderstanding the direction of change.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of calculating percentages between two numbers is a valuable skill applicable in various situations. By understanding and practicing the methods discussed in this tutorial, you’ll be equipped to confidently handle percentage calculations in your academic, professional, and everyday endeavors. Remember, practice makes perfect, so apply these concepts to real-world problems to solidify your understanding.
