How this calculation works
Moving from 12% to 15% changes the rate by 3 points. Dividing that difference by 12% answers a separate relative-change question.
Percentage points = ending rate − starting rateA worked example
A rise from 12% to 15% is 3 percentage points and a 25% relative rise.
Good to know
Relative change is undefined when the starting rate is zero.
Reference: OpenStax Prealgebra (opens in a new tab) ↗
Read the result
Subtract two rates expressed as percentages and report their relative change separately.
The primary result is labeled “Change (percentage points)”. Keep the input definitions in view when comparing this result with another method.
Try a related calculation
Relative change is undefined when the starting rate is zero.
For a related exercise, try the fraction calculator.
A few questions, answered
How can I check the default inputs by hand?
A rise from 12% to 15% is 3 percentage points and a 25% relative rise.
Which rule does this calculator apply?
Percentage points = ending rate − starting rate