11+ Maths: Finding Percentages of Quantities
21 October 2026
Finding percentages made simple
Understanding how to find a percentage of a quantity is a key skill for 11+ maths. This method is used in many exam questions and real-life situations.
Step-by-step method
To find a percentage of a quantity, first convert the percentage to a decimal. Then multiply this decimal by the total amount. This gives you the answer.
Worked example
Find 25% of 80
Step 1: Convert 25% to a decimal. 25% = 0.25
Step 2: Multiply the decimal by the quantity. 0.25 × 80 = 20
The answer is 20.
Why this method works
Percentages are another way of expressing fractions out of 100. Converting to a decimal makes the calculation straightforward and avoids confusion.
Key insight: Encourage your child to always check that the answer makes sense. For example, 25% of 80 should be less than half of 80.
