What is 20% of 275? A Step-by-Step Guide
Finding a percentage of a number is a common task in many areas, from calculating discounts to determining tax amounts. Let's break down how to calculate 20% of 275. This seemingly simple calculation can be solved in a couple of ways.
Method 1: Converting the Percentage to a Decimal
This is arguably the most straightforward method. We begin by converting the percentage to its decimal equivalent. To do this, simply divide the percentage by 100:
20% ÷ 100 = 0.20
Now, multiply this decimal by the number you want to find the percentage of:
0.20 x 275 = 55
Therefore, 20% of 275 is .
Method 2: Using Fractions
Percentages can also be expressed as fractions. 20% can be written as 20/100, which simplifies to 1/5. This means we need to find one-fifth of 275. We can do this by dividing 275 by 5:
275 ÷ 5 = 55
Again, we arrive at the answer: 20% of 275 is .
Understanding Percentages: A Quick Recap
A percentage is a fraction or ratio expressed as a number out of 100. It represents a portion of a whole. Understanding percentages is crucial in various applications, including:
- Financial calculations: Calculating interest, discounts, taxes, tips, and more.
- Data analysis: Interpreting statistical data and representing proportions.
- Everyday life: Understanding sales, comparing prices, and making informed decisions.
Practical Applications of Percentage Calculations
The ability to calculate percentages quickly and accurately has numerous practical applications in daily life. Here are a few examples:
- Shopping: Determining the final price after a discount. For instance, if a shirt is 20% off, calculating the discount and the final price.
- Tax calculations: Figuring out the tax amount on a purchase or income.
- Tip calculation: Determining the appropriate tip amount in a restaurant.
Mastering percentage calculations like finding 20% of 275 enhances your ability to handle various real-world situations efficiently and accurately. Remember, both the decimal and fraction methods provide equally valid approaches to solving such problems.
