A method exists for calculating the percentage change between two values, often used in economics to determine elasticity. This calculation, designed to provide a more accurate percentage change regardless of the direction of the change, involves dividing the change in value by the average of the initial and final values. For example, if the price of a good increases from $10 to $12, the percentage change, using this approach, is calculated as (($12-$10)/(($10+$12)/2))*100, yielding approximately 18.18%. A tool, often available online, automates this mathematical process.
This calculation technique is particularly valuable because it mitigates the problem of obtaining different percentage changes depending on whether one is calculating the increase or decrease between two points. This consistency is crucial in economic analyses, such as determining the price elasticity of demand or supply, where accurate and comparable percentage changes are essential for informed decision-making and policy formulation. Its use prevents potential biases that could arise from using a simpler percentage change formula. Historically, it emerged as a refinement to basic percentage change calculations to improve the accuracy and reliability of economic analyses.