How to Calculate Percentages

7. Discount Example Method One

Using the previous example, what is the final cost of a $55 shirt if it is 35% off. To figure out the answer, consumers can take two approaches. The first method is to calculate the dollar amount of the discount and subtract it from the initial price. To do that, figure out what 35% of $55 is (remember, this involves moving the decimal point two spaces to the left in the percentage (35%= .35) and then multiply by $55. This equals .35 x 55 = $19.25. So the discount is $19.25. This amount should be subtracted from the initial cost to find the final price. So, $55.00-$19.25 = $35.75. The final price of this shirt is $35.75.

porcorex / Getty Images