Solve percent equations: word problems

Learning Objectives Identify the 'part,' 'whole,' and 'percent' in a word problem. Translate percent word problems into mathematical equations. Solve for an unknown part, whole, or percent using algebraic methods. Apply the percent equation to real-world scenarios. Check the reasonableness of solutions to percent word problems. Distinguish between different types of percent problems (finding the part, finding the whole, finding the percent). Ever wonder how stores calculate discounts or how much tax you pay? 🛍️ It all comes down to percents! In this lesson, you'll learn how to turn everyday percent questions into equations and solve them. Understanding percents helps you make smart decisions with money, understand statistics, and more. Re...

TermDefinitionExample PercentA ratio that compares a number to 100. 'Per cent' means 'per hundred.'25% means 25 out of 100, or 25/100. PartThe amount that is a fraction or portion of the whole.In '20 is 25% of 80,' 20 is the part. Whole (or Base)The total amount or the entire quantity.In '20 is 25% of 80,' 80 is the whole. Percent EquationA mathematical statement that shows the relationship between the part, whole, and percent.Part = Percent × Whole VariableA symbol, usually a letter, used to represent an unknown quantity in an equation.In $x = 0.25 \times 80$, 'x' is the variable representing the part. Decimal Form of a PercentA percent written as a decimal by dividing by 100 (or moving the decimal point two places to the left).25% writte...

The Percent Equation $\text{Part} = \text{Percent} \times \text{Whole}$ Use this equation to find any of the three quantities (part, percent, or whole) when the other two are known. Remember to convert the percent to a decimal or fraction before multiplying. Converting Percent to Decimal $\text{Decimal} = \frac{\text{Percent Value}}{100}$ Before using a percent in an equation, always convert it to its decimal form by dividing by 100 or moving the decimal point two places to the left. The Percent Proportion (Alternative) $\frac{\text{Part}}{\text{Whole}} = \frac{\text{Percent}}{100}$ This proportion can also be used to solve percent problems. It directly relates the part to the whole as a fraction, equal to the percent over 100.