Fraction to Percent: How to Convert (with Chart)

Do you need to turn a fraction into a percentage? It’s easier than you might think! First, you divide the top number (numerator) by the bottom number (denominator). This gives you a decimal. Then, you simply multiply that decimal by 100.

For example, let’s take the fraction 2/5. You divide 2 by 5, which equals 0.4. Now, multiply 0.4 by 100. That gives you 40%. So, 2/5 is the same as 40%.

Fractions, decimals, and percentages are all ways to talk about parts of a whole thing. Knowing how to switch between them is a really useful skill. You’ll use it in math, when managing money, and even in everyday life.

A fraction like 1/2 shows a part compared to its whole (like half a pizza). A percentage like 50% shows that same part, but out of 100. Luckily, the steps to convert them are simple. It works for all kinds of fractions, even tricky ones!

How to Turn a Fraction into a Percent

Turning a fraction into a percentage is a two-step process. I’ll walk you through it.

1. Make it a decimal: Take the top number (numerator) and divide it by the bottom number (denominator).
2. Make it a percent: Take the decimal you just found and multiply it by 100. Don’t forget to add the percent sign (%) at the end!

The Formula I Use

Here’s the math formula if you like to see it written out:

Want to learn more about fractions and decimals? Check out my guide on Fraction to Decimal: Chart, Formula & Worked Examples.

Percent = (Numerator / Denominator) * 100

Step-by-Step Example: Changing 2/5 to a Percent

Let’s use our example of 2/5 again. I’ll show you exactly how to convert it.

1. Divide the top number by the bottom number:

   The top number is 2.

   The bottom number is 5.

   2 ÷ 5 = 0.4

   So, 2/5 as a decimal is 0.4.

2. Multiply the decimal by 100:

   0.4 × 100 = 40

   Now, add the percent symbol:

   40%

That means 2/5 is the same as 40%. See, it’s not so bad!

What About Mixed Numbers?

Sometimes you’ll see a mixed number. This is a whole number with a fraction next to it, like 1 1/3. Before you can convert it to a percent, you need to change it into an “improper fraction.”

To do this, you multiply the whole number by the bottom number of the fraction. Then, you add the top number of the fraction. Put this new total over the original bottom number.

Example: Converting 1 1/3 to a Percent

1. Turn the mixed number into an improper fraction:

   Our whole number is 1, the fraction’s top number is 1, and its bottom number is 3.

   (1 × 3) + 1 = 3 + 1 = 4

   So, our improper fraction is 4/3.

2. Divide the top number by the bottom number:

   4 ÷ 3 ≈ 1.3333 (This decimal goes on forever, so we’ll round it a bit.)

3. Multiply the decimal by 100:

   1.3333 × 100 ≈ 133.33

   Add the percent symbol:

   133.33%

So, 1 1/3 is about 133.33%. It’s more than 100% because it’s more than a whole!

If you want to quickly check your work or need a fast answer, I often use an online tool. A Percentage Calculator can do these conversions for you right away. It’s really handy for both simple and more complex fractions.

Fraction to Percent Conversion Chart

I put together this table with common fraction to percent conversions. It includes some with decimals that repeat. You can use it to quickly find answers or to check if your own calculations are correct. You can also use a dedicated fraction to percent calculator for any fraction.

Common Questions

What is 10/12 as a percent?

To change 10/12 to a percent, you divide 10 by 12. This gives you about 0.8333. Then, multiply that by 100. So, 10/12 is about 83.33%.

How do you convert 5/6 to a percentage?

First, divide 5 by 6. You’ll get about 0.8333. Next, multiply 0.8333 by 100. That means 5/6 is roughly 83.33%.

What is the percentage equivalent of 1/20?

1/20 is the same as 5%. I get this by dividing 1 by 20, which is 0.05. Then I multiply 0.05 by 100, which gives me 5%.