The formula
Inputs
- Earned43
- Possible50
Calculation
- 43 ÷ 50 = 0.86
- 0.86 × 100 = 86
Result
86%
7 points missed · 2% each
Inputs
- Multiple choice36 / 40
- Essay14 / 20
Calculation
- 36 + 14 = 50 earned
- 40 + 20 = 60 possible
- 50 ÷ 60 × 100 = 83.33
Result
83.33%
total score
Averaging 90% and 70% would give 80% and overweight the shorter essay.
- Earned
- points you scored, including any partial credit
- Possible
- the maximum points on the test, excluding bonus questions
Reading your result
On a 50-point test each point is worth 2%, so one or two points can move you across a letter boundary. The “Points missed” line and the grade chart make that visible. If your teacher adds bonus points, keep them in earned but not in possible, and tick “Allow extra credit”.
Using the grade chart
For teachers marking a stack of papers, the chart lists the percentage for every number of points missed, so you don't have to recalculate for each student. It works for whole-number totals up to 100.
Planning with a target
Enter a target percentage to see how many points it takes. On a 50-point test, 90% needs 45 points.
A test is usually one part of a course grade. To combine it with your other work, use the grade calculator; if it's your final exam, the final exam calculator shows what it does to your course grade.
Questions
How do I work out a test percentage?
Divide the points you earned by the points possible, then multiply by 100. 43 out of 50 is 43 ÷ 50 × 100 = 86%.
What if the test has sections worth different amounts?
Add each section's points earned and points possible separately, then divide the totals. Don't average the section percentages — a 10-point section would count as much as a 40-point one. The “Add up sections” panel does this for you.
Can I get more than 100%?
Only with extra credit. Tick “Allow extra credit” if your earned points are genuinely above the points possible.
What letter grade is my percentage?
We show the letter on a common US scale (90–92.99% A−, 93%+ A, and so on). Your teacher's bands may be different.