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I want to store a ratio value in a command, e.g. \newcommand{\ratio}{0.7}, and then use it in recalculating a length, e.g. \setlength{\somelength}{\ratio*\width}.

Using lengths to store the ratio doesn't seem to work as it requires a unit (but ratios are unitless). I've also tried using calc but I can't seem to get it to work.

How should I go about this?

EDIT: Minimal example:

\documentclass{standalone}

\newcommand{\widthRatio}{0.7}
\newlength{\newWidth}
\setlength{\newWidth}{\widthRatio*\textwidth} % Doesn't compile

\begin{document}
\end{document}
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    If \width is a register like \textwidth then your code would work if you omit * – David Carlisle Mar 13 '13 at 14:39
  • With code samples of your unsuccesful attempts, it would be better, and you would likely get a full answer instead of a one liner from @David. – yo' Mar 13 '13 at 14:49
  • @tohecz: There, minimal example added. =) – gablin Mar 14 '13 at 7:47
  • @DavidCarlisle: Cool, didn't know about that! Could you please add that as an answer so that I can accept it? – gablin Mar 14 '13 at 7:47
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As \textwidth is a dimen register if you omit the * it is already correct syntax.

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