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internal_controls_fan2026-05-21
cfaLevel IQuantitative Methods - Rate Conventions

When should a CFA rate be entered as 8 rather than 0.08?

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Enter 8 when the calculator field expects a percentage rate, such as the BA II Plus I/Y field in a time value of money setup. Enter 0.08 when you are manually using the rate inside an algebraic formula, such as PV = CF / (1 + r).

The difference is not mathematical opinion. It is input convention. I/Y = 8 means 8 percent per period to the TVM worksheet. In a manual formula, 8 means eight times the base amount, which is usually not what the curriculum formula intends.

Before solving, ask whether the number goes into a calculator register or into a formula you are typing yourself.

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