How to Calculate Percentage in Google Sheets

Calculate percentages, percentage change, and percentage increases in Google Sheets with formulas and correct number formatting.

=B2/C2

Direct answer

Quick answer

Divide the part by the total, then format the decimal result as a percentage. With the completed amount in B2 and total in C2, use =B2/C2.

Percentage of a total

=B2/C2

Divides the completed amount by the total.

Percentage change

=(C2-B2)/B2

Returns growth or decline relative to the original value.

Increase by a percentage

=B2*(1+C2)

Adds the percentage in C2 to the value in B2.

Percentage format

Format > Number > Percent

Displays a decimal such as 0.75 as 75%.

Press ⌘+Enter to submit

Project completion percentage

The formula in D2 divides completed tasks by total tasks and is formatted as a percentage.

The formula in D2 divides completed tasks by total tasks and is formatted as a percentage.
ProjectCompleted (B)Total (C)Progress (D)
Website364875%
Campaign182475%
Migration425084%

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Enter the part and total

    Put the completed amount in B2 and the total amount in C2.

  2. Enter the percentage formula

    Click D2, type =B2/C2, and press Enter.

  3. Format the result as a percent

    Select D2 and choose Format > Number > Percent, or click the Percent toolbar button.

  4. Copy the calculation

    Drag the fill handle down to apply the formula to the remaining rows.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Applying Percent format to a whole number such as 75 displays 7,500%; store 75% as 0.75 or type 75%.
  • Do not multiply by 100 if you also use percentage formatting.
  • For percentage change, divide by the original value rather than the new value.

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