Solve the Expression: 6 - 3 + 5 × 2² Using Order of Operations

Q: Why can't I just work from left to right like reading?

Mathematics has a special order that ensures everyone gets the same answer! Without BODMAS, $ 2 + 3 \times 4 $ could equal 20 or 14 - we need rules to avoid confusion.

Q: What's the difference between BODMAS and PEMDAS?

They're the same thing! BODMAS uses 'Orders' for exponents while PEMDAS uses 'Exponents'. Both give identical results - just different ways to remember the order.

Q: Do I always do multiplication before addition?

Yes, always! Multiplication and division come before addition and subtraction in the order of operations. So $ 5 \times 4 $ must be calculated before adding or subtracting other numbers.

Q: What if I have multiple exponents in one problem?

Calculate each exponent separately first, then continue with multiplication/division, then addition/subtraction. For example: $ 2^2 + 3^2 = 4 + 9 = 13 $

Q: How do I remember the correct order?

Try memory tricks! 'Bodmas' sounds like 'bad mass' or use 'Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally' for PEMDAS. Practice with simple examples until it becomes automatic!

Q: What happens if I get a different answer than the choices?

Double-check each step! Most likely you either skipped the exponent, did operations in wrong order, or made a calculation error. Go through BODMAS step-by-step again.

Order of Operations with Exponents and Mixed Operations

$6 - 3 + 5 \times 2^2 =$

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Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution

Understand the problem

$6 - 3 + 5 \times 2^2 =$

Step-by-step solution

First, follow the order of operations (BODMAS/BIDMAS):

Step 1: Calculate the exponent:
$2^2 = 4$

Step 2: Perform the multiplication:
$5 \times 4 = 20$

Step 3: Perform the addition and subtraction from left to right:
$6 - 3 + 20 = 23$

The correct result is: $23$ .

Final Answer

$23$

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic

BODMAS Rule: Brackets, Orders (exponents), Division/Multiplication, Addition/Subtraction
Technique: Calculate $2^2 = 4$ first, then $5 \times 4 = 20$
Check: Work left to right for addition/subtraction: $6 - 3 + 20 = 23$ ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors

Working left to right without following order of operations
Don't calculate 6 - 3 + 5 × 2² = 3 + 5 × 2² = 8 × 4 = 32! This ignores the order of operations completely. Always handle exponents first, then multiplication, then addition and subtraction from left to right.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

What is the result of the following equation?

$36-4\div2$

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just work from left to right like reading?

Mathematics has a special order that ensures everyone gets the same answer! Without BODMAS, $2 + 3 \times 4$ could equal 20 or 14 - we need rules to avoid confusion.

What's the difference between BODMAS and PEMDAS?

They're the same thing! BODMAS uses 'Orders' for exponents while PEMDAS uses 'Exponents'. Both give identical results - just different ways to remember the order.

Do I always do multiplication before addition?

Yes, always! Multiplication and division come before addition and subtraction in the order of operations. So $5 \times 4$ must be calculated before adding or subtracting other numbers.

What if I have multiple exponents in one problem?

Calculate each exponent separately first, then continue with multiplication/division, then addition/subtraction. For example: $2^2 + 3^2 = 4 + 9 = 13$

How do I remember the correct order?

Try memory tricks! 'Bodmas' sounds like 'bad mass' or use 'Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally' for PEMDAS. Practice with simple examples until it becomes automatic!

What happens if I get a different answer than the choices?

Double-check each step! Most likely you either skipped the exponent, did operations in wrong order, or made a calculation error. Go through BODMAS step-by-step again.

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