Solve the Expression: 8 + 3 × 2 - 5 Using Order of Operations

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

Mathematical expressions follow PEMDAS rules, not reading order! If we worked left to right, $ 2 + 3 \times 4 $ would equal 20 instead of the correct answer 14.

Q: Do I always do multiplication before addition?

Yes! Multiplication and division always come before addition and subtraction, no matter where they appear in the expression. This is a fundamental math rule.

Q: What if there are no parentheses in the problem?

That's fine! You still follow PEMDAS order. Look for multiplication and division first, then handle addition and subtraction from left to right.

Q: How can I remember to check my work?

After getting your answer, trace through each step again. Ask yourself: 'Did I do multiplication first?' Then verify: 'Does my final calculation make sense?'

Order of Operations with Mixed Arithmetic

$8 + 3 \times 2 - 5 =$

❤️ Continue Your Math Journey!

We have hundreds of course questions with personalized recommendations + Account 100% premium

Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution

Understand the problem

$8 + 3 \times 2 - 5 =$

Step-by-step solution

First, perform the multiplication: $3 \times 2 = 6$ .

Then, follow the sequence with addition: $8 + 6 = 14$ .

Finally, perform the subtraction: $14 - 5 = 9$ .

Final Answer

$9$

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic

PEMDAS Rule: Multiplication and division come before addition and subtraction
Technique: Calculate $3 \times 2 = 6$ first, then work left to right
Check: Verify final steps: $8 + 6 - 5 = 14 - 5 = 9$ ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors

Working strictly left to right without considering PEMDAS
Don't calculate 8 + 3 = 11 first, then 11 × 2 = 22, then 22 - 5 = 17! This ignores order of operations and gives wrong answers. Always identify and perform multiplication/division before addition/subtraction.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

$8 + 3 \times 2 =$

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

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

Mathematical expressions follow PEMDAS rules, not reading order! If we worked left to right, $2 + 3 \times 4$ would equal 20 instead of the correct answer 14.

What does PEMDAS stand for again?

Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (left to right), Addition and Subtraction (left to right). Remember: Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally!

Do I always do multiplication before addition?

Yes! Multiplication and division always come before addition and subtraction, no matter where they appear in the expression. This is a fundamental math rule.

What if there are no parentheses in the problem?

That's fine! You still follow PEMDAS order. Look for multiplication and division first, then handle addition and subtraction from left to right.

How can I remember to check my work?

After getting your answer, trace through each step again. Ask yourself: 'Did I do multiplication first?' Then verify: 'Does my final calculation make sense?'

🌟 Unlock Your Math Potential

Get unlimited access to all 18 Order of operations for beginners questions, detailed video solutions, and personalized progress tracking.

📹

Unlimited Video Solutions

Step-by-step explanations for every problem

📊

Progress Analytics

Track your mastery across all topics

🚫

Ad-Free Learning

Focus on math without distractions

No credit card required • Cancel anytime