To convert percentage figures to decimals, how should you adjust the decimal point?

To convert a percentage figure to a decimal, the correct method is to move the decimal point two places to the left. This is because a percentage represents a part out of 100. For example, to convert 50% to a decimal, you would move the decimal point two places to the left from 50.00, resulting in 0.50. This process effectively divides the percentage by 100, which is the fundamental concept of how percentages function.

In this context, moving the decimal point two places to the left allows you to express the percentage in its decimal form accurately, which is essential for calculations in fields like engineering, finance, or any area that involves numerical data manipulation. This understanding is crucial for apprentice linemen, as they will often deal with various measurements and calculations where precise conversions are necessary for safety and accuracy in their work.