Comprehensive Calculator Guide
When a rate rises from 5% to 6%, it rises one percentage point, which is also a 20% increase. Both are true and measure different things, and mixing them up is a common error in news and reports. Enter the old and new rates to see the change in points and in percent side by side.
Points versus percent
Percentage points are a straight subtraction: 6% − 5% = 1 point. Percent change relates that gap to the starting rate: 1 ÷ 5 × 100 = 20%.
Use points to compare rates directly, such as interest rates, pass rates and poll results; use percent change to show the size of a change against where it started. A rise from 2% to 4% is only 2 points but a 100% increase.
How to Use
- 01Enter the old rate.
- 02Enter the new rate.
- 03Read the change in points and in percent.
Formula Used
Points = new − old | Percent change = (new − old) ÷ old × 100Practical Examples
Example 1
5% to 6%: 1 point, +20%.
Example 2
60% to 75%: 15 points, +25%.
Example 3
12% to 9%: −3 points, −25%.
Important Tips
- Say which you mean in reports.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Saying a rate rose 1% when it rose 1 point.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a percentage point?
- The simple difference between two percentages.
- What is 5% to 6%?
- One point, or a 20% increase.
- Can points be negative?
- Yes, when the rate falls.