How to calculate percentages, increases and discounts
Enter a base amount and a percentage to see the percentage amount and the totals after an increase or discount. All three results use the same original base, helping distinguish the change itself from the resulting total.
Step by step
- Enter the base amount to which the percentage applies.
- Enter the percentage. For example, enter 10 for 10%, not 0.10.
- Review the percentage amount and the totals after an increase and a discount.
Calculation method
The percentage amount is base × percentage / 100. The increased value adds that amount to the base; the discounted value subtracts it. Each result is calculated directly from the base you enter.
Assumptions and limitations
This tool does not apply successive discounts, compound interest, tax brackets or particular commercial rules. Successive discounts must use updated bases rather than simply adding their percentages.
Common questions
Does a 10% increase followed by a 10% decrease return to the original amount?
Generally, no. The second change applies to a different base. Use the first result as the base for your second calculation.
Is a percentage the same as a percentage point?
No. Moving from 10% to 12% is an increase of 2 percentage points and a relative increase of 20%.