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Practical guide

How to evaluate a discount before you buy

A percentage-off label answers only one question. A good purchase also depends on the reference price, total checkout cost, quantity and whether the item is useful to you.

1. Verify the reference price

A discount is measured against an original or listed price. Compare the current price with the product’s recent price at reputable sellers when possible. A large percentage is not meaningful if the reference price was unusually high.

2. Calculate the amount saved

Multiply the original price by the discount rate expressed as a decimal. On ₹2,500 at 12% off, the saving is ₹300 and the sale price is ₹2,200. Use our discount calculator to see both values.

3. Do not simply add successive discounts

If a store offers 20% off and then another 10% off, the second reduction applies to the already discounted amount. You pay 0.80 × 0.90 = 0.72 of the original price, an effective discount of 28%. Check multi-step offers with the successive discount calculator.

4. Include tax, delivery and conditions

Estimate the checkout total, not only the shelf price. Delivery fees, tax, membership costs, minimum spends and payment-method restrictions can reduce the practical saving. Tax rules vary, so treat an online estimate as a check rather than an invoice.

5. Compare equal quantities

Convert both packages to the same unit. Divide price by grams, litres or items with the unit price calculator. A larger pack may have a lower unit price, but waste and expiry can make it a worse purchase.

6. Separate price from value

Ask whether you would buy the item without the promotional countdown. Return policy, warranty, durability and expected use can matter more than the displayed discount. The best saving is sometimes not making an unnecessary purchase.

A quick checkout checklist