Rule of 72

Rule of 72: use annual growth rate. Review the formula, worked example and calculation steps.

Inputs

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RESULT
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Formula & explanation
Approximate doubling years = 72/rate%

Variables & units

Annual growth rate
% · minimum 0.000001, maximum 1000000000000

Worked example

At6%, the rule estimates12 years to double.

Assumptions

A rough mental approximation. Use Doubling time for the exact constant-rate discrete model.

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