Order of Operations Page 4 of 4
One More PEMDAS Example
This example has two sets of grouping symbols: parentheses () and brackets []. When an expression has more than one set of grouping symbols, start with the innermost symbols and work out from there. In this case, we need to start with the 6 squared inside the inner parentheses. Once we simplify that, we need to keep simplifying what's inside the brackets next. This gives you 6 + 4[9].
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At this point, you're left with two operations: addition and multiplication. Multiplication comes first in the order of operations, so you need to multiply 4 and 9 together first and then add 6 as the last step.
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A common mistake in the example above is to multiply the 3 and 6 together and then square it. Make sure to remember that exponents come before multiplication.
Order of Operations Practice Quiz
Ready to try using PEMDAS on your own? Click the START button below to try a practice quiz.
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