Order of operations

Definition

Order of operations is a set of rules used to evaluate mathematical expressions in a consistent manner. The standard order is Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (left to right), Addition and Subtraction (left to right) often abbreviated as PEMDAS.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parentheses should be solved first, working from the innermost expression to the outermost.
2. Exponents are evaluated after parentheses but before multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction.
3. Multiplication and division are performed next, moving from left to right across the expression.
4. Addition and subtraction are performed last, also moving from left to right.
5. Ignoring the order of operations can lead to incorrect results.

Review Questions

• What is the correct order of operations for evaluating expressions?
• How do you handle multiple operations inside parentheses?
• Why is it important to follow the order of operations?

Related terms

Expression: A combination of numbers, variables, and operators that represents a mathematical relationship.

Parentheses: Symbols used in pairs to group parts of an expression that should be evaluated first.

Exponent: A number indicating how many times a base is multiplied by itself.