Worked example 1
18 is 30% of what number?
Whole = 18 ÷ 0.30 = 60. Check: 30% of 60 = 18. ✓
Answer: 60
Grade 6 Math · Topic 39
Finding the Whole Given a Percent
Sometimes the percent and the part are known, but the whole is missing. To find the whole, divide the part by the percent (as a decimal). Equivalently, set up a percent proportion and solve.
Lesson alignment: 6.RP.A.3.c · Take your time. You can return to this lesson whenever you need it.
Explore visually
Find the whole from a percent
Set the known part and percent. See how the full bar is related to the part.
Think first: If this amount is only a small percent, should the whole be larger or smaller?
Ready? Reveal the model and try your prediction
Swipe horizontally to see the full diagram.
Turn on JavaScript to adjust this model. The examples and practice below work without it.
Follow the worked examples
Read each step, then cover the explanation and see if you can explain why it works.
Worked example 2
45 is 75% of what number?
Whole = 45 ÷ 0.75 = 60. Check: 0.75 × 60 = 45. ✓
Answer: 60
Try a few on your own
Work these on paper first. Open “Check” when you are ready to compare your answer.
- 12 is 20% of
Check
60
- 24 is 40% of
Check
60
- 30 is 50% of
Check
60
- 15 is 25% of
Check
60
- 36 is 60% of
Check
60
- 9 is 10% of
Check
90
- 21 is 35% of
Check
60
- 48 is 80% of
Check
60
Try this situation 1
Maya saved $60, which is 20% of her goal. What is her goal?
Show a worked solution
Answer: $300.
Goal = 60 ÷ 0.20 = 300.
Try this situation 2
30% of the seats in a theater are empty. There are 54 empty seats. How many seats are in the theater in all?
Show a worked solution
Answer: 180 seats.
Total = 54 ÷ 0.30 = 180.
Fresh questions · saved on this device
Practice this skill
Try a fresh set each time. Answer one question, check your thinking, and read the explanation. If you miss one, return to the visual model and try another round.
Question 1 of 50 correct so far
Session complete
Check what you learned
Answer these five questions on your own. You can review the explanations after you submit and try again whenever you like. This short check is for practice, not a grade.
Practice and finish
Try the linked topic quiz for more practice. If something is tricky, return to the example and look for the step that changes the numbers or representation.
Your checkmark, skill-practice sessions, and best exit-check score are saved on this browser and device. The course page can download a progress report to share with a tutor or teacher.
More Grade 6 resources
Use these free materials if you want another explanation, extra paper practice, or a broader review.