Converting a percentage into a fraction is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Understand the Definition: A percentage represents a part of a whole out of 100. For example, 25% means 25 out of 100.
- Write the Percentage as a Fraction: To convert the percentage to a fraction, you can start by writing it over 100. For example, to convert 40%, write it as:
- Simplify the Fraction: If the fraction can be simplified, you simplify it by finding the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator. In the case of 40/100:
- Final Fraction: Therefore, 40% as a fraction is 2/5.
40% = 40/100
GCD of 40 and 100 is 20.
Dividing both by 20 gives:
40 ÷ 20 = 2
100 ÷ 20 = 5
So, 40/100 simplifies to 2/5.
Example: Let’s take another example, say 75%. To convert 75% to a fraction:
- Write it as 75/100.
- The GCD of 75 and 100 is 25.
- Dividing by 25, you get:
75 ÷ 25 = 3
100 ÷ 25 = 4
Hence, 75/100 simplifies to 3/4.
In summary, to convert a percentage to a fraction, write it over 100 and simplify if possible. This not only makes the fraction easier to understand but also allows for easier calculations in mathematical operations.