Order of Operations
A standard way to simplify mathematical expressions and equations.
Purpose
Avoids
Confusion Gives Consistency
For example:
8 + 3 * 4 = 11 * 4 = 44
Or does it equal
8 + 3 * 4 = 8 + 12 = 20
Order of operations are a set of rules that mathematicians have agreed to follow to avoid mass CONFUSION when simplifying mathematical expressions or equations. Without these simple, but important rules, learning mathematics would be maddening.
The Rules
1. 2. 3. 4.
Simplify within Grouping Symbols
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Simplify Exponents
Raise to Powers
Complete Multiplication and Division from Left to Right Complete Addition and Subtraction from Left to Right
Back to Our Example
For example:
8 + 3 * 4 = 11 * 4 = 44 Or does it equal
8 + 3 * 4 = 8 + 12 = 20 Using order of operations, we do the multiplication first. So what’s our answer?
20
How can we remember it?
Parenthesis Exponents Multiplication Division Addition
Subtraction
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Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally
Summary
Key
points to remember that will give audience confidence or improve morale