Name the percentage question before entering numbers

Percentage calculations answer different questions. “What is 25% of 120?” gives 30. “42 out of 50 is what percent?” gives 84%. “80 increased to 96” is a 20% increase, using 80 as the base.

Choose the matching mode in a percentage calculator and check which number is the baseline. For a discount, calculate the amount removed and the final price separately. Round only at the end and state the currency or unit where needed.

The arithmetic is simple once the base is unambiguous.