How to Find the Ratio of Two Numbers in a Percentage

Percentages are a ratio of 100.

A percentage compares two numbers in terms of parts of 100. Rather than saying "3 of 4," you can express the same result as 75 percent. However, percent measurements can be misleading if you don't know the sample size being compared. If you know the percentage and one value, you can find two numbers in a percentage and express it as a standard fraction.

Instructions

1. Determine your percentage --- for example, 75 percent.

2. Find one of your unknown values. If you know the full sample size, write it as the denominator, or bottom, of a fraction. If you know the portion size, write it as the numerator, or top. For example, assume you have a full sample size of 300 and want to find the unknown.

3. Write the equation: 75/100 = x/300. Use cross-multiplication to solve: 100x = 22,500. X = 225.

References

• Syracuse University; Review of Percents;