How to Calculate a Discount
Calculating a discount is a fundamental math skill for shopping. Whether you are at a department store sale or buying online, knowing the final price helps you budget effectively.
The Formula
To find the sale price of an item:
- Convert the percentage to a decimal: Divide the discount percentage by 100 (e.g., 20% becomes 0.20).
- Multiply by the original price: This gives you the discount amount.
- Subtract from the original price: Original Price − Discount Amount = Final Price.
Example Calculation
You want to buy a jacket that costs $120. It is on sale for 25% off.
- Discount Amount: $120 × 0.25 = $30
- Final Price: $120 − $30 = $90
- You save $30.
Pro Tip: Double Discounts
If an item is 50% off and then an "extra 20% off" is applied at the register, the total discount is not 70%. You calculate the 20% off the already reduced price.