Percentage Calculator
Three common percentage problems, solved instantly as you type.
What is X% of Y?
Percentage change from X to Y
X is what percent of Y?
Percentage change vs percentage points
Percentage change is relative: going from 80 to 100 is a 25% increase, not a 20% increase, because the change (20) is measured against the starting value (80), not the ending one.
About the Percentage Calculator
The Percentage Calculator handles the three most common percentage questions: what is X% of Y, what is the percentage change from one number to another, and X is what percent of Y. It also explains the difference between a percentage change and percentage points.
To find a percentage of a number, multiply by the percentage and divide by 100. The percentage change is (new − old) / old × 100. A change from 50 to 60 is a 20 percent increase, but a change from 60 back to 50 is a 16.7 percent decrease, because the base is different. A rise from 10 percent to 12 percent is 2 percentage points but a 20 percent relative increase.
How to use it
- Pick the question type that matches your problem.
- Enter the numbers in the fields.
- Read the result instantly.
- Use the explanations to check your understanding.
Tips and good to know
- Always identify the base value: the number you are taking the percentage of.
- For discounts use the Discount Calculator.
- Round only at the end.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add 20 percent to a number?
Multiply by 1.2.
What is the difference between percent and percentage points?
Percentage points compare two percentages; percent compares relative change.
Can percentages exceed 100?
Yes, for example growth of 150 percent.