What Percentage Of 16 Is 12

What Percentage of 16 is 12? A Step-by-Step Guide

Finding what percentage one number represents of another is a common mathematical problem with applications in various fields, from calculating discounts to understanding statistical data. This article will guide you through calculating what percentage of 16 is 12, explaining the process clearly and providing a simple formula you can use for similar calculations. We'll also explore some real-world examples to solidify your understanding.

Understanding Percentage Calculations

A percentage is a fraction expressed as a number out of 100. To find a percentage, we need to determine what proportion one number is of another and then express that proportion as a percentage. The basic formula is:

(Part / Whole) * 100% = Percentage

In this case, the "part" is 12, and the "whole" is 16.

Calculating the Percentage

Let's apply the formula to find what percentage 12 is of 16:

(12 / 16) * 100% = Percentage

1. Divide the part by the whole: 12 divided by 16 equals 0.75

2. Multiply by 100: 0.75 multiplied by 100 equals 75

Therefore, 12 is 75% of 16.

Real-World Examples

Understanding percentage calculations is crucial in various daily situations. Here are a few examples:

• Discounts: A store offers a discount of $4 on an item originally priced at $16. To calculate the discount percentage, you'd use the same method: (4/16) * 100% = 25%. The discount is 25%.

• Test Scores: If you answered 12 questions correctly out of 16 on a test, your score is 75%.

• Sales Targets: If your sales target is 16 units, and you've sold 12, you've achieved 75% of your target.

• Budgeting: If your monthly budget is $16 and you spend $12, you've spent 75% of your budget.

Alternative Method: Using Proportions

You can also solve this using proportions:

12/16 = x/100

Cross-multiply: 16x = 1200

Solve for x: x = 1200/16 = 75

Therefore, x = 75%, confirming our earlier calculation.

Conclusion

Calculating percentages is a valuable skill with widespread applications. By understanding the basic formula and applying it systematically, as demonstrated in this article, you can confidently solve various percentage problems. Remember the formula: (Part / Whole) * 100% = Percentage, and you'll be able to tackle any similar percentage calculation with ease. Practice with different numbers to build your understanding and proficiency.