How to Calculate a Percentage
Three quick methods to calculate any percentage, with worked examples and a calculator for the messy ones.
Reviewed Jan 15, 2025
Quick answer
To find X% of Y, multiply: (X ÷ 100) × Y. Example: 20% of 50 = 0.20 × 50 = 10.
(X ÷ 100) × Y
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Open full calculatorPercentage Calculator
Solve everyday percentage questions: percent of, change, and reverse.
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Calcxo gives you the answer plus the reasoning behind it.
Method 1 — Convert to a decimal
Drop the % sign
20% becomes 20.
Divide by 100
20 ÷ 100 = 0.20
Multiply
0.20 × 50 = 10
Method 2 — Mental shortcuts
- 10% of any number = move the decimal one place left.
- 5% = half of 10%.
- 1% = move the decimal two places left.
- Combine: 15% = 10% + 5%.
Method 3 — Use the calculator above
For odd percents and big numbers, the percentage calculator handles all three classic questions: percent of, what percent, and percent change.
Frequently asked
- What is 20% of 50?
- 20% of 50 is 10. Multiply 0.20 × 50 = 10.
- How do I find what percent A is of B?
- Divide A by B, then multiply by 100. Example: 15 is what percent of 60? 15 ÷ 60 × 100 = 25%.