what percentage is 15/20

2025

2 min read 31-03-2025

Knowing how to convert fractions to percentages is a fundamental math skill. This article will show you exactly how to calculate what percentage 15/20 represents, and provide you with the tools to solve similar problems in the future. Understanding percentages is crucial in many areas of life, from calculating discounts to understanding statistics.

Understanding Percentages

A percentage is a way of expressing a number as a fraction of 100. The symbol % represents "per hundred." For example, 50% means 50 out of 100, or 50/100.

Calculating the Percentage: 15/20

There are two main ways to calculate what percentage 15/20 is:

Method 1: Converting the Fraction to a Decimal

Divide the numerator by the denominator: Divide 15 by 20. This gives you 0.75.
Multiply by 100: Multiply the decimal (0.75) by 100 to convert it to a percentage. 0.75 x 100 = 75.
Add the percentage symbol: The result is 75%. Therefore, 15/20 is equal to 75%.

Method 2: Simplifying the Fraction

Find the greatest common divisor (GCD): The greatest number that divides both 15 and 20 evenly is 5.
Simplify the fraction: Divide both the numerator and the denominator by the GCD (5). This simplifies 15/20 to 3/4.
Convert to a decimal: Divide 3 by 4, which equals 0.75.
Multiply by 100 and add the % symbol: 0.75 x 100 = 75%. Thus, 15/20 is equal to 75%.

Why is understanding percentages important?

Understanding percentages is essential for everyday life. Here are a few examples:

Shopping: Calculating discounts, sales tax, and tips.
Finance: Understanding interest rates, loan repayments, and investment returns.
Academics: Determining grades and test scores.
Data Analysis: Interpreting statistical data and graphs.

Practice Problems

Try these practice problems to solidify your understanding:

What percentage is 10/25?
What percentage is 18/30?
What percentage is 7/28?

By mastering the method of converting fractions to percentages, you'll be well-equipped to handle various percentage calculations confidently. Remember, understanding the underlying principles is key to solving any percentage problem effectively. Whether you use the decimal method or the fraction simplification method, you'll always arrive at the same correct answer.