what is 25 of 14

2 min read 23-12-2024

What is 25% of 14? A Step-by-Step Guide

Finding a percentage of a number is a common mathematical task. This article will clearly explain how to calculate 25% of 14, providing a step-by-step process that's easy to follow, regardless of your math background. We'll also explore different methods for solving this type of problem.

Understanding Percentages

Before diving into the calculation, let's briefly review what a percentage represents. A percentage is a fraction out of 100. So, 25% means 25 out of 100, which can also be written as the fraction 25/100 or the decimal 0.25.

Method 1: Using Decimal Conversion

This is arguably the simplest method. We convert the percentage to a decimal and then multiply:

Convert the percentage to a decimal: 25% = 0.25 (divide the percentage by 100).
Multiply the decimal by the number: 0.25 * 14 = 3.5

Therefore, 25% of 14 is $\boxed{3.5}$

Method 2: Using Fraction Conversion

This method involves converting the percentage to a fraction and then performing the multiplication:

Convert the percentage to a fraction: 25% = 25/100. This fraction can be simplified to 1/4.
Multiply the fraction by the number: (1/4) * 14 = 14/4
Simplify the fraction: 14/4 simplifies to 7/2 or 3.5

Again, we find that 25% of 14 is $\boxed{3.5}$

Method 3: Proportions

This method uses the concept of proportions to solve for the unknown value. We set up a proportion:

25/100 = x/14

Where 'x' represents the unknown value (25% of 14). To solve for x, we cross-multiply:

25 * 14 = 100 * x 350 = 100x x = 350/100 x = 3.5

So, once again, 25% of 14 equals $\boxed{3.5}$

Practical Applications

Understanding how to calculate percentages is crucial in many real-world situations, such as:

Calculating discounts: Finding the sale price of an item with a 25% discount.
Determining tax amounts: Calculating the amount of sales tax on a purchase.
Understanding financial statements: Interpreting percentages in financial reports.
Analyzing data: Working with percentages in statistical analyses.

This simple calculation, finding 25% of 14, demonstrates a fundamental skill applicable to numerous contexts. Mastering percentage calculations will enhance your problem-solving abilities across various fields. Remember that all three methods presented yield the same correct answer: 3.5. Choose the method you find most comfortable and efficient.