Basic Math

Fundamental mathematical operations and concepts for everyday use.

Addition and SubtractionMultiplication and DivisionUnderstanding Numbers and Place Value
Working with FractionsDecimals and PercentagesOrder of Operations
Budgeting and Money MathCooking and MeasurementsTelling Time and Schedules
Estimation and Mental MathWord Problem Solving
Addition and Subtrac...Multiplication and D...Understanding Number...Working with Fractio...Decimals and Percent...Order of OperationsBudgeting and Money ...Cooking and Measurem...Telling Time and Sch...Estimation and Menta...Word Problem Solving
Advanced Topics

Order of Operations

Solving Problems the Right Way

When a math problem has more than one operation, you need to know which to do first! That’s where the order of operations comes in.

The Order

Remember PEMDAS:

  • Parentheses first
  • Exponents (not common in basic math)
  • Multiplication and Division (left to right)
  • Addition and Subtraction (left to right)

So, for \( 2 + 3 \times 4 \), multiply first: \( 3 \times 4 = 12 \), then add 2: \( 2 + 12 = 14 \).

Why It Matters

The order keeps math fair and answers correct, whether you’re programming a robot or just splitting a bill!

Examples

  • Solving \( 5 + (2 \times 3) = 11 \) by doing the parentheses first.

  • Finding \( (8 - 3) + 2 = 7 \) instead of \( 8 - (3 + 2) = 3 \).

In a Nutshell

Order of operations tells you which math steps to do first.

Key Terms

PEMDAS
A way to remember the order of operations.
Parentheses
Brackets used to group numbers or operations.
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Budgeting and Money Math