Mathematical

"ORDER OF OPERATIONS"

March 22, 1996

• Why do we need a standard way to simplify mathematical expressions or equations?

• To avoid confusion!!

• Example:

8 + 2 * 3 =

1. Let's think... 8 plus 2 equals 10

2. 10 times 3 equals 30. That's the answer!! OR

   Still thinking...

3. 2 times 3 equals 6

4. 6 plus 8 equals 14. What, another answer.

   CONFUSION

   is settling in. Still thinking..., maybe the operations must be performed in a specific order?

Further explanation link to:Dr. Math

Order of operations are a set of rules that mathematicians have agreed to follow to avoid mass CONFUSION when simplifying mathematical expressions or equations. Without these simple, but important rules, learning mathematics would be maddening.

Further information is found in Eric's database. Key in mathematical in first box, order in second, and operations in third.

ORDER OF OPERATIONS

RULES

1. Simplify any expression in a grouping symbol.

   [ 2 + (8-3) + 5 ]

   (3 - 5) / 6 * 7

2. Simplify expressions with exponents.

   4^3 + (6 - 4)^2

3. Carry out multiplication or division from left to right.

   6 * 3 / 9 * 8

4. Lastly, simplify addition or subtraction from left to right.

7 + 8 - 3 + 2

For those of you that remember best with acronyms:

Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally (PEMDAS)

• Please Parentheses

• Escuse Exponents

• My Multiplication

• Dear Division

• Aunt Addition

• Sally Subtraction

Now, that you have the rules link to some examples.

EXAMPLE 1

EXAMPLE 2

Let's try some problems:

A videotape is available that shows and explains the Order of Operations. At this link you will find more information about acquiring the video.

Link to: VIDEO

Helen's Home

Link to: Great Lakes

Link to: CLASS

Hmack@nmu.edu

Mackh@ greatlakes.k12.mi.us