The order of operations is the agreed sequence for evaluating an expression: parentheses, exponents, multiplication and division left to right, then addition and subtraction left to right. Without it the same expression would have several answers.
Math Dictionary / Order of Operations
Order of Operations
The order of operations is the agreed order for simplifying expressions.
AlgebraGrade 5Grade 6Grade 7Grade 8GEDSATACT
What it means
A common order is parentheses, exponents, multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction.
Also called: PEMDAS
Examples
| 2 + 3 x 4 = 14 |
| (2 + 3) x 4 = 20 |
| Exponents come before multiplication |
Common mistake
Multiplication and division are done left to right; addition and subtraction are also done left to right.
Try one
Question: Simplify 6 + 2 x 5.
Show answer
16.