Definition
The order of operations is a set of rules that tells you the correct sequence to solve a math expression: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (left to right), Addition and Subtraction (left to right).
Think of it as a priority list. Parentheses come first, then multiplication and division, and finally addition and subtraction. The acronym PEMDAS can help you remember.
Examples
- 2 + 3 x 4 = 2 + 12 = 14 (multiply before adding).
- (2 + 3) x 4 = 5 x 4 = 20 (parentheses first).
- 10 - 2 x 3 = 10 - 6 = 4.