To find out what 25% of $60.00 is, we first need to understand the concept of percentages and how to apply them in calculations. Percentages are a way to express a number as a fraction of 100. So when we say 25%, we mean 25 out of every 100 parts. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of calculating 25% of $60.00 in an easy and clear manner.
Understanding Percentages
Before we get into the calculation, let’s clarify what we mean by percentage. The term percent comes from the Latin phrase "per centum," which means "by the hundred." Thus, 25% means 25 out of every 100.
Key Points:
- 100% is the whole amount.
- 25% represents one quarter of that whole amount.
Steps to Calculate 25% of $60.00
Now that we understand what 25% means, let’s work through the calculation.
Step 1: Convert the Percentage to Decimal
To calculate the percentage of a number, first convert the percentage into a decimal. This is done by dividing the percentage by 100.
[ \text{Decimal} = \frac{\text{Percentage}}{100} = \frac{25}{100} = 0.25 ]
Step 2: Multiply the Decimal by the Total Amount
Once we have the decimal form of the percentage, the next step is to multiply it by the total amount, which in this case is $60.00.
[ \text{Calculation} = 0.25 \times 60 = 15 ]
So, 25% of $60.00 is $15.00.
Visual Representation
To make this clear, here’s a quick table to summarize the steps:
<table> <tr> <th>Step</th> <th>Calculation</th> <th>Result</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Convert 25% to Decimal</td> <td>25 ÷ 100</td> <td>0.25</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Multiply by $60.00</td> <td>0.25 × 60</td> <td>$15.00</td> </tr> </table>
Importance of Knowing Percentages
Understanding how to calculate percentages is an important skill in everyday life. Whether you're dealing with discounts, taxes, or tips, knowing how to quickly find percentages can save you time and help you make better financial decisions.
Common Scenarios Where Percentages Matter
- Shopping Discounts: When items go on sale, the discount percentage tells you how much you save.
- Tips at Restaurants: Knowing how to calculate a tip based on the bill helps in budgeting.
- Interest Rates: Understanding how interest accumulates on loans or savings can impact financial decisions.
Conclusion
Calculating percentages is a straightforward process once you grasp the basics. In this example, we demonstrated how to find 25% of $60.00, which is $15.00. This knowledge is useful in many financial situations and can empower you to make informed choices. By practicing these calculations, you’ll find that working with percentages can become second nature. So, the next time someone asks, "What is 25% of $60.00?" you’ll have the answer ready! 🎉