Determining a percentage of a given number is a fundamental mathematical operation. In this specific case, the objective is to calculate five percent of twelve hundred. The process involves converting the percentage to a decimal (0.05) and then multiplying it by the whole number (1200). The resulting value represents the proportional amount corresponding to the specified percentage.
Calculating a portion of a whole has practical applications across various disciplines, including finance, statistics, and everyday life. It is used for determining discounts, calculating interest, analyzing data sets, and understanding proportional relationships. A solid grasp of this skill enables accurate decision-making and problem-solving in both professional and personal contexts. Historically, the ability to accurately calculate proportions has been vital for trade, resource allocation, and economic planning.