3. \( 12 \% \) of 72 is what number?

To find \( 12\% \) of \( 72 \), convert the percentage to a decimal by dividing by \( 100 \), which gives \( 0.12 \). Then, multiply \( 72 \) by \( 0.12 \): \( 72 \times 0.12 = 8.64 \). So, \( 12\% \) of \( 72 \) is \( 8.64 \). One common mistake is forgetting to convert the percentage into a decimal before multiplying. Always remember that \( x\% \) can be represented as \( \frac{x}{100} \). This little step can save you from incorrect calculations!