Name_______________________________ Date__________________________

Using the Percent Circle

To use the percent circle:

  • Cover the symbol of the number you are trying to find.
  • Do the math indicated by the uncovered symbols.

 

Example 1: Finding part of a whole

If 30% of your $1900 monthly check is used to pay rent, how much is your rent payment?

    Step 1. Cover P (the part) -- the number you are trying to find.

    Step 2. Read the uncovered symbols:

  means   % x W ,      hence   P = % x W

To find the part, multiply the percent by the whole.

 

Example 2: Finding what percent a part is of a whole.

If $400 of your $1900 monthly check is used to buy food, what percent of your check is spent on food?

    Step 1. Cover % (the percent) -- the number you are trying to find.

    Step 2. Read the uncovered symbols:

  means   P / W ,      hence   % = P ÷ W

To find the percent, divide the part by the whole.

 

Example 3: Finding a whole when a part is given.

Suppose you buy a used car and make a 10% down payment of $250.
What is the price of the car?

    Step 1. Cover W (the whole) -- the number you are trying to find.

    Step 2. Read the uncovered symbols:

  means   P / % ,      hence   W = P ÷ %

To find the whole, divide the part by the percent.