Percentage increase and decrease

To increase or decrease an amount by a percentage, do it in two steps. First find that percentage of the amount — the change. Then combine it: add for an increase, subtract for a decrease. To increase 60 by 10%: 10% of 60 = 6, then 60 + 6 = 66. To decrease 60 by 10%: 60 − 6 = 54. The change on its own is not the answer — you must apply it to the starting amount, and check the direction word 'increase' or 'decrease' before you add or subtract.