A simple math problem is confusing millions online because most people solve it the wrong way.<\/p>\n
The equation looks easy:<\/p>\n
3+3\\times3-3+3<\/p>\n
Many people quickly answer 18 by solving from left to right:<\/p>\n
3 + 3 = 6
\n6 \u00d7 3 = 18
\n18 \u2212 3 = 15
\n15 + 3 = 18<\/p>\n
But that ignores the order of operations.<\/p>\n
Using PEMDAS\/BODMAS rules, multiplication must come before addition and subtraction.<\/p>\n
So first solve:<\/p>\n
3 \u00d7 3 = 9<\/p>\n
Now the equation becomes:<\/p>\n
3 + 9 \u2212 3 + 3<\/p>\n
Then solve left to right:<\/p>\n
3 + 9 = 12
\n12 \u2212 3 = 9
\n9 + 3 = 12<\/p>\n
The correct answer is 12.<\/p>\n
The puzzle went viral because it tricks people into relying on instinct instead of mathematical rules. It\u2019s a reminder that even simple-looking equations can become confusing when we rush through them.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"