Percents of numbers: word problems

Learning Objectives Identify the 'part', 'whole', and 'percent' in various word problem contexts. Convert percents to decimals and fractions, and vice-versa, for use in calculations. Set up and solve equations to find a percent of a given number. Set up and solve equations to find the whole when a percent and its corresponding part are known. Set up and solve equations to determine the percent when the part and whole are given. Solve multi-step word problems involving percents, such as calculating discounts, taxes, or tips. Ever wonder how stores calculate discounts on your favorite items? 🛍️ Or how much tax you'll pay on a new gadget before you buy it? In this lesson, you'll learn how to break down word problems involving percents in...

TermDefinitionExample PercentA ratio that compares a number to 100. It means 'per one hundred' or 'out of one hundred' and is denoted by the symbol %.25% means 25 out of 100, which can be written as the fraction 25/100 or the decimal 0.25. PartThe portion or amount that represents a certain percentage of the whole. It is the result of applying the percent to the whole.If 20% of 50 apples are red, then 10 red apples is the part. Whole (or Base)The total amount or the entire quantity from which a part is taken. It represents 100% of the quantity.In the statement '20% of 50 apples are red,' 50 apples is the whole. Percent EquationA mathematical equation that shows the relationship between the part, the whole, and the percent: Part = Percent × Whole (where Percen...

The Percent Equation $$Part = Percent \times Whole$$ This is the fundamental equation for solving most percent problems. Remember to always convert the percent to its decimal or fractional form before multiplying. Finding the Percent $$Percent = \frac{Part}{Whole}$$ Use this rule when you know the part and the whole, and you need to find what percentage the part is of the whole. The result will be a decimal that you then convert to a percent by multiplying by 100. Finding the Whole $$Whole = \frac{Part}{Percent}$$ Apply this rule when you know a specific part and the percentage it represents, and you need to find the total amount. Ensure the percent is in decimal or fractional form.