Finding a percentage of a number is a fundamental mathematical operation that is commonly used in various aspects of life, including finance, commerce, and everyday calculations. Calculating 15% of 80 is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in a few simple steps.
What is 15% of 80?
To find 15% of 80, you need to multiply 80 by 15% or 0.15.
Calculation:
15% of 80 = 80 x 0.15 = 12
Therefore, 15% of 80 is 12.
Explanation:
The calculation involves converting the percentage to a decimal by dividing by 100 and then multiplying it by the given number.
Step-by-Step Breakdown:
- Convert 15% to a decimal by dividing by 100: 15 ÷ 100 = 0.15
- Multiply 0.15 by 80: 0.15 x 80 = 12
Practical Applications:
Calculating percentages is an essential skill in real-life scenarios, such as:
- Discounts: If a product is on sale for 15% off, and the original price is $80, you can calculate the discount amount as 15% of 80, which is $12.
- Tips: If you want to leave a 15% tip for a server, and the total bill is $80, you can calculate the tip amount as 15% of 80, which is $12.
- Taxes: If you need to calculate a 15% tax on a $80 purchase, you can use the same calculation to find the tax amount.
Common Mistakes:
When calculating percentages, it's essential to ensure that you are using the correct decimal equivalent of the percentage. A common mistake is to forget to divide by 100 or to use the wrong decimal value.
Tips and Tricks:
To quickly calculate percentages, you can use mental math tricks or estimate the answer. For example, to find 15% of 80, you can estimate the answer as 10% of 80 (which is $8) and then add half of that amount (which is $4) to get $12.
In conclusion, calculating 15% of 80 is a simple mathematical operation that can be accomplished by converting the percentage to a decimal and multiplying it by the given number. This calculation has numerous practical applications in real-life scenarios, and by understanding the process, you can quickly and accurately find the answer.
Gallery of Percentage Calculations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the formula for calculating a percentage?
+The formula for calculating a percentage is: (percentage / 100) x number.
How do I convert a percentage to a decimal?
+To convert a percentage to a decimal, divide the percentage by 100.
What are some common real-life applications of percentage calculations?
+Percentage calculations are commonly used in finance, commerce, and everyday life, such as calculating discounts, tips, and taxes.