Mastering Math: The Order of Operations and How to Simplify Mathematical Expressions

Order of Operation

Parenthesis, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, subtraction (PEMDAS)

The order of operations is a set of rules for evaluating mathematical expressions. These rules ensure that calculations are performed in a consistent and predictable manner. The order of operations is as follows:

1. Perform operations inside parentheses first
2. Exponents (ie. squared or cubed numbers)
3. Multiply or Divide, whichever comes first, starting from left to right
4. Add or Subtract, whichever comes first, starting from left to right

Examples:
1. Simplify the expression 4 + 6 * 2

Solution:
Multiplication comes before addition, so we perform 6 * 2 first: 4 + 12 = 16

Therefore, 4 + 6 * 2 = 16

2. Simplify the expression (3 + 4) * 5 – 2^2

Solution:
We perform the operation inside the parentheses first: 7 * 5 – 2^2.

Next, we evaluate the exponent: 7 * 5 – 4.

Finally, we perform the subtraction: 35 – 4 = 31.

Therefore, (3 + 4) * 5 – 2^2 = 31.

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