Smart Math guide · Everyday Math

Estimate Tips Quickly

Use 10% as an anchor and combine it to get common tip rates.

All levelsWorked example includedSelf-check included
The method

How to use it

  1. Find 10% by moving the decimal one place.
  2. Half of 10% gives 5%.
  3. Combine for 15%, 20%, 25%, etc.
Worked example

See it in action

$46 bill: 20%≈$9.20; 15%≈$6.90.

Check your thinking

How to verify it

A 20% tip should be about one-fifth of the bill.