How do you convert a percentage to a decimal?

To convert a percentage to a decimal, you divide the percentage value by 100. This process involves recognizing that 'percent' means 'per hundred.' For example, to convert 45% into a decimal, you would perform the calculation 45 ÷ 100, which equals 0.45.

This process effectively shifts the decimal point two places to the left in the percentage figure. Therefore, understanding this division is crucial for accurately interpreting percentage values in various mathematical contexts.