Percents as fractions
Converting a percent to a fraction means writing the percent value over 100 and then reducing to lowest terms. Since percent literally means per hundred, 75% becomes 75/100, which simplifies to 3/4. Similarly, 90% = 90/100 = 9/10. This conversion is essential for solving percent problems using fraction methods. The skill is introduced in Chapter 2 of Saxon Math Course 2 and is a foundational 7th grade math concept that connects fractions, decimals, and percents as three representations of the same value.
Key Concepts
Property A percent is a fraction that always has a denominator of 100. To convert, write the percent value over 100 and then reduce to lowest terms.
Examples "Convert 90%: $90\% = \frac{90}{100} = \frac{9}{10}$." "Convert 75%: $75\% = \frac{75}{100} = \frac{3}{4}$.".
Explanation The word "percent" is your secret clue, meaning "per hundred"! Just put the percent's number over 100 to create a fraction. After that, just reduce the fraction to its simplest form to finish the job.
Common Questions
How do you convert a percent to a fraction?
Write the percent number over 100 and simplify. For example, 75% = 75/100 = 3/4. Divide both numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor.
What does percent mean?
Percent means per hundred. So 40% means 40 out of 100, which can be written as the fraction 40/100 or the decimal 0.40.
How do you convert 90% to a fraction?
Write 90/100 and simplify by dividing both by 10 to get 9/10.
Why convert percents to fractions?
Fractions can be easier to work with in calculations, especially multiplication and division. Converting lets you choose the most convenient form for each problem.
What are common mistakes when converting percents to fractions?
Students sometimes forget to reduce the fraction to lowest terms, or they write the percent over 10 instead of 100.
Is converting percents to fractions taught in 7th grade?
Yes. Saxon Math Course 2 introduces this conversion in Chapter 2, building the connection between fractions, decimals, and percents.