Understanding Percentage Increases: What Does a 15% Rise Mean?

    When it comes to pricing and budgeting, understanding how to calculate percentage increases is a handy skill—so let's break it down together. Picture this: you find a shirt that you love, and it’s priced at $20. Awesome, right? But what if the store announces that the price is going to rise by 15%? Suddenly, you’re left wondering, “What’s the new price?!”

    You know what? Let’s dive into this math problem step by step. 

    First things first, we need to convert that percentage into a decimal. Why? Because math rules! To convert 15% to a decimal, you divide it by 100. Simple enough:
    
    15% = 0.15.

    Now, with that little gem unlocked, we can figure out how much the price will increase when that snazzy shirt goes up in cost. It all comes down to this basic formula:

    **Increase = Original Price × Percentage Increase.**
    
    So, here’s how it plays out: 

    **Increase = $20 × 0.15.** 

    Let’s crunch those numbers together: $20 multiplied by 0.15 equals $3. 

    So, we know the shirt will rise by $3. But we’re not done yet! Now we need to find the new price by adding that increase back to the original price. Ready?

    **New Price = Original Price + Increase.**

    This translates to:

    **New Price = $20 + $3.**

    Do the math, and you have a cool new price of $23! So, after a 15% increase, that shirt that once cost $20 is now tantalizingly priced at $23.

    This example might seem basic, but it’s a great way to grasp how percentage changes influence prices. Whether you’re budgeting for groceries or hunting for the latest fashion trends, knowing how to calculate increases like this can save you some heartache at checkout!

    As you study for the Workkeys Math Test or tackle real-life math problems, keep this principle in mind. You’ll find that percentage calculations aren’t just numbers on a page; they’re real tools that can help you make informed decisions in your day-to-day life.

    And just think, with a little practice and by seeing these calculations in action, you'll become a whizz at handling financial numbers. Isn’t it comforting to know that math doesn’t just exist in the classroom? It’s everywhere! 

    So, the next time you see a sign that screams “15% off!” or “Price increase of 10%!”, you’ll have the confidence to whip out your trusty calculating skills. Who knew running numbers could feel so empowering?

    Use this example as a springboard for your practice. Get comfortable with calculating price changes, and soon you’ll be a step ahead, whether it’s in your studies or when making real-world shopping decisions. Remember, math can be your best friend if you allow it to shine.