How to Calculate a Discount Manually
If you're out shopping and don't have this calculator handy, calculating a discount is simple. Just follow these steps:
- Convert the percentage to a decimal: Do this by moving the decimal point two spots to the left (e.g. 20% becomes 0.20, 5% becomes 0.05).
- Multiply by the original price: Multiply the original price by the decimal you just found. This gives you the amount you are saving.
- Subtract the savings: Subtract the amount you saved from the original price to find the final sale price.
The "Double Discount" Trick
Retailers often advertise items as "An additional 20% off the already reduced 30% clearance price!" This does not mean the item is 50% off.
When combining discounts, you must apply them sequentially. First, take 30% off the original price. Then, take 20% off of that new, lower price. This means your total savings will actually be 44% off the original price, not 50%.