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15 percent off 120

15 percent off 120

less than a minute read 23-10-2024
15 percent off 120

15% Off 120: Calculating Discounts Made Easy

Ever found yourself staring at a price tag with a tempting discount, wondering exactly how much you'll save? We've all been there! Today we're tackling a common scenario: calculating a 15% discount on $120. Let's break it down, step by step.

Understanding Percentages

Percentages are simply fractions out of 100. So, 15% means 15 out of every 100. To find the discount, we need to figure out what 15% of $120 is.

Methods to Calculate the Discount

There are a couple of ways to calculate the discount:

  1. Using Decimal Conversion:

    • Convert the percentage to a decimal: Divide 15 by 100, which equals 0.15.
    • Multiply the decimal by the original price: 0.15 * $120 = $18
  2. Using Fractions:

    • Convert the percentage to a fraction: 15% is the same as 15/100, which can be simplified to 3/20.
    • Multiply the fraction by the original price: (3/20) * $120 = $18

Finding the Final Price

Now that we know the discount is $18, we can subtract it from the original price:

  • $120 - $18 = $102

The Answer: A 15% discount on $120 equals a savings of $18, making the final price $102.

Practical Application

This knowledge isn't just for shopping! Discounts apply in many situations:

  • Sales Tax: You can use the same method to calculate sales tax on purchases.
  • Tips: Want to tip 15% at a restaurant? Follow the same steps to figure out how much to add to your bill.
  • Interest Rates: Understanding percentages is crucial when calculating interest earned on savings accounts or interest owed on loans.

Conclusion

Calculating percentages might seem intimidating, but it's really quite simple! By converting percentages to decimals or fractions, you can easily determine discounts, taxes, tips, and more. Now you're equipped to confidently navigate the world of percentages, saving you money and making you a more informed consumer.

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