This video goes over the order of operations. Hopefully this helps your kids remember them more easily.
For more help, check out our Pre-Algebra Lessons Page
Credit goes to Education Galaxy
A Guide to Mastering Order of Operations
In the realm of mathematics, tackling complex expressions often requires a systematic approach to ensure accuracy and consistency. Enter PEMDAS – a mnemonic device that serves as a guiding principle for solving order of operations problems.
PEMDAS, which stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), Addition and Subtraction (from left to right), is a mnemonic device used to remember the order of operations in mathematical expressions. Think of it as a roadmap that dictates the sequence in which different operations should be performed when evaluating an expression.
Let’s break down each component of PEMDAS and understand its significance:
Parentheses – Parentheses are used to indicate groupings within an expression. Operations enclosed within parentheses should be performed first, starting from the innermost set of parentheses and working outward. Parentheses allow us to clarify the hierarchy of operations and override the default order dictated by PEMDAS when necessary.
Exponents – Exponents, also known as powers or indices, represent repeated multiplication. They denote how many times a number (the base) should be multiplied by itself. When encountering exponents in an expression, we evaluate them next, raising the base to the given exponent.
Multiplication and Division – Following the principles of PEMDAS, multiplication and division are treated as equal priority operations and are performed from left to right as they appear in the expression. It’s important to note that these operations should be evaluated in the order they appear, regardless of which comes first in the acronym.
Addition and Subtraction – Similar to multiplication and division, addition and subtraction are also of equal priority and are performed from left to right. Again, the order of operations dictates that these operations should be evaluated in the sequence they appear in the expression.
By adhering to the rules outlined by PEMDAS, we can systematically break down complex expressions into manageable steps, ensuring accuracy and consistency in our calculations. Let’s illustrate this with an example:
Consider the expression – 3 + 4 x (22 – 1)
Using PEMDAS, we start by evaluating the operations inside the parentheses:
Step #1 – Parentheses : (22 – 1)
We must first determine the value of the exponent:
22 = 4
We then subtract 1.
4 – 1 = 3
Now, we have: 3 + 4 x 3
Step #2: Multiplication
Next, we perform multiplication before addition:
4 x 3 = 12
Now, we have: 3 + 12
Step #3: Addition
Finally, we add: 3 + 12 = 15
Thus, the value of the expression is 15.
PEMDAS serves as a reliable tool for solving order of operations problems by establishing a clear sequence for evaluating mathematical expressions. By following the prescribed order -Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction – we can navigate through complex expressions with ease, unlocking the solutions to mathematical puzzles and unlocking the potential of our mathematical prowess.