Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions about percentages and our calculation tools.

What is a percentage?

A percentage is a number or ratio expressed as a fraction of 100. It is often denoted using the percent sign, "%". For example, 45% (read as "forty-five percent") is equal to 45 / 100, or 0.45.

How do you calculate a percentage?

To calculate a percentage, divide the part by the total whole, and then multiply the result by 100. For instance, if you have 10 apples out of a total of 50, (10 / 50) = 0.20. Multiply by 100, and you get 20%.

What is the difference between percentage increase and percentage points?

A percentage increase measures the relative growth of a number. A percentage point is the simple arithmetic difference between two percentages. If an interest rate goes from 4% to 5%, it increased by 1 percentage point, but the percentage increase is 25% (because 1 is 25% of 4).

Are your calculators free to use?

Yes. All calculators on Percentage Calculator are 100% free to use. We do not require sign-ups, subscriptions, or app downloads.

Do you store my calculation data?

No. All calculations are performed entirely in your browser using JavaScript. No data is sent to our servers or stored anywhere. Your privacy is absolute.