Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about percentage change and how to use our calculator.
What is percentage change?
Percentage change is a mathematical concept that represents the degree of change over time. It is used to express the difference between an old value and a new value as a percentage of the old value.
How do I calculate percentage change manually?
The formula is: ((Final Value - Initial Value) / |Initial Value|) × 100. First, find the difference between the two values. Then, divide that difference by the absolute value of the initial number. Finally, multiply the result by 100.
What is the difference between percentage change and percentage difference?
Percentage change compares an old value to a new value over time. Percentage difference compares two values when neither is obviously older or newer, usually by dividing the difference by the average of the two numbers.
Can percentage change be negative?
Yes. If the final value is less than the initial value, the percentage change will be negative, indicating a percentage decrease.
What happens if the initial value is zero?
If the initial value is zero and the final value is greater than zero, the percentage change is technically infinite because you cannot divide by zero. Our calculator handles this gracefully by showing an infinite increase.
Is this calculator free to use?
Yes, the Percentage Change Calculator by Dapplesoft is 100% free to use. There are no hidden fees, subscriptions, or sign-ups required.
Do you store my calculation data?
No. All calculations are performed locally in your browser using JavaScript. We do not send your input data to our servers or store it in any database.
How can I save my results?
Once you calculate a result, you can click the 'Download PNG' button to save a beautifully formatted image of your calculation. You can also use the 'Share Result' button to copy the text or share it via your device's native sharing options.
Can I use this for financial calculations?
Yes, this tool is perfect for calculating stock market gains/losses, profit margins, discount rates, and other financial metrics that rely on percentage change.
Does this tool work on mobile devices?
Absolutely. Our calculator is designed with a mobile-first approach, ensuring it works perfectly and looks great on smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers alike.