Percentage formulas
- X% of Y = Y × X ÷ 100
- X is what % of Y = X ÷ Y × 100
- Percentage change = (new − old) ÷ old × 100
- Add X% = Y × (1 + X ÷ 100); subtract X% = Y × (1 − X ÷ 100)
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate a discount?
Use the last row: enter the price and the discount percentage. The “minus” result is the sale price — for example $80 minus 25% = $60.
Why is a 50% increase followed by a 50% decrease not the original value?
Because the second percentage applies to a bigger number: 100 → 150 → 75. Percentage changes are always relative to the starting value.