Mastering Percentages: Understanding 15% of 200 for TEAS Success

Calculating percentages can be a tricky business, but once you get the hang of it, it's like riding a bike—you just know how to do it! Today, let’s tackle a common question you might find on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) ATI Mathematics: What is 15% of 200? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about finding the number; it’s about understanding the process behind it.

So, how do you go about it? The first step is to convert that percentage into a decimal. Now, don’t zone out yet. This part is super simple. You take 15% and divide it by 100. Here’s how it looks in math terms:

[ 15% = \frac{15}{100} = 0.15 ]

And that’s it! You’ve just changed a percentage into a decimal.

Now, here’s where the magic happens. You take that decimal—0.15 in this case—and multiply it by 200. Ready for the calculation? Let’s give it a whirl:

[ 0.15 \times 200 = 30 ]

You see? 15% of 200 is 30. At this point, some folks might feel a rush of triumph. It’s like scoring a goal at the final seconds of a match—satisfying, right? You now know that the correct answer is, indeed, choice B. 30.

Now, let’s take a quick peek at the other options: 25, 35, and 40. These might seem tempting, especially if you're feeling rushed or unsure. But these figures? They don’t represent 15% of 200. They pull you away from the correct path—like a detour sign on a road trip when all you want is to reach your destination!

In math, accuracy is key. Each step builds upon the previous one, much like constructing a sturdy house. Miss a step, and suddenly, you’re juggling numbers that don’t fit.