Percentages are just a way of talking about fractions. Instead of saying “one half,” you can say “50 percent.” So, how do you figure out what percent one number is of another? Like, what percent is 10 of 40? Here’s how.
Calculating the percentage
Here’s how to figure out what percentage of 40 is represented by the number 10.
Setting up the problem
First, clarify what you’re trying to find out: What percentage of 40 is 10?
Next, figure out which number is the “part” and which is the “whole.” In this example, 10 is the “part” and 40 is the “whole.”
Performing the calculation
Start by dividing the “part” by the “whole”: 10 / 40. This will give you the decimal form of the fraction.
Then, multiply your answer by 100 to convert the decimal to a percentage: (10 / 40) 100 = Percentage
Solving the equation
10 / 40 = 0.25
0.25 100 = 25
The Answer and Its Meaning
So, 10 is 25% of 40. That means 10 is equal to one-quarter of 40.
Percentages show up everywhere in the real world! You see them when you’re calculating discounts at the store, figuring out your score on a test, or even calculating tips at a restaurant.
Conclusion
To calculate percentages, divide the part by the whole, and then multiply by 100. Using this formula, we’ve shown that 10 is 25% of 40.