Calculating a percentage of a given number is a fundamental mathematical operation with broad applications. In the specific case of determining ten percent of twelve hundred, the process involves multiplying twelve hundred by the decimal equivalent of ten percent, which is 0.10. The resulting value represents a tenth of the original amount.
Understanding percentage calculations is essential in various contexts, including financial analysis, sales tax computation, and statistical interpretation. Accurately determining portions of larger values enables informed decision-making in both personal and professional settings. This skill has been historically relevant across numerous fields requiring quantitative analysis.