Percentages
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Percentages are a fundamental mathematical concept representing a fraction of 100. The term 'percent' originates from the Latin 'per centum', meaning 'by the hundred'. It is denoted by the symbol '%'. A percentage is a dimensionless number, used to express a proportional part of a whole. For instance, 25% means 25 parts out of 100, which can be written as the fraction 25/100 or the decimal 0.25. T…
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Percentages are a fundamental concept in mathematics, representing a part of a whole as a fraction of 100. The term 'percent' literally means 'per hundred' and is denoted by the '%' symbol. For instance, 25% means 25 out of 100, which can be written as the fraction 25/100 or the decimal 0.
25. The ability to convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages is a core skill. To convert a fraction or decimal to a percentage, multiply by 100. To convert a percentage to a fraction or decimal, divide by 100.
This interconversion is crucial for solving a wide array of problems. Key applications include calculating percentage increase or decrease, which measures relative change. Successive percentage changes, where one change is applied after another, require careful calculation, often using the (x + y + xy/100)% formula.
Percentages are also the backbone of commercial mathematics, used in profit and loss, discounts, and markups. Furthermore, they are integral to financial calculations like simple and compound interest, and for analyzing population growth or decline.
In CSAT, percentages are not just a standalone topic but a pervasive tool for data interpretation, allowing aspirants to quickly compare and analyze information presented in charts, graphs, and tables.
A solid grasp of these basics ensures a strong foundation for the entire quantitative aptitude section.