Numerous individuals online are tricked by this swift math puzzle.
They glance at the figures and hastily assume 52.
At first sight, calculating from left to right appears logical.
Nevertheless, fundamental math principles indicate that 52 is entirely incorrect.
Let’s analyze the equation step by step using the proper order of operations.
In mathematics, we apply the PEMDAS or BODMAS guideline to resolve expressions.
This guideline represents Parentheses/Brackets, Exponents/Orders, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction.
According to this guideline, multiplication and division hold equal significance.
When both are present, you resolve them from left to right.
Addition and subtraction follow and are also addressed from left to right.
Now, let’s examine our equation: 7 × 6 ÷ 3 + 4.
Initially, we tackle the multiplication and division starting from the left.
The first operation on the left is 7 × 6.
7 multiplied by 6 results in 42.
Now our equation simplifies to: 42 ÷ 3 + 4.
Next, we address the remaining division step.
We divide 42 by 3, which gives us 14.
Now the equation becomes even more straightforward: 14 + 4.
Finally, we carry out the addition.
14 plus 4 results in 18.
Thus, the mathematically correct answer to the equation is 18.