Percentages are a fundamental part of everyday maths, from working out discounts to understanding financial information. Let’s break down how to calculate 21% of £160.
There are a couple of ways to approach this problem:
Method 1: Breaking it Down
- Find 10%: To find 10% of £160, divide £160 by 10:
£160 ÷ 10 = £16 - Find 20%: Since 20% is double 10%, multiply the value of 10% by 2:
£16 x 2 = £32 - Find 1%: To find 1% of £160, divide £160 by 100:
£160 ÷ 100 = £1.60 - Calculate 21%: Add 20% and 1%:
£32 + £1.60 = £33.60
Therefore, 21% of £160 is £33.60.
Method 2: Direct Calculation
Convert the percentage to a decimal by dividing by 100:
21% = 21/100 = 0.21
Multiply the decimal by the original amount:
0. 21 x £160 = £33.60
Both methods arrive at the same answer: 21% of £160 is £33.60
Why is this useful?
Knowing how to calculate percentages is crucial for:
- Understanding discounts and sales.
- Calculating interest on loans or savings.
- Working out proportions and ratios.
If you find percentage calculations challenging, remember that help is available. Consider online maths tutoring to get tailored support and build your confidence in maths. Mastering these essential skills can benefit you in many aspects of life.