Estimated Time: 10–15 minutes
Goal: Learn the correct order of operations and avoid common mistakes with negatives, exponents, and multiplication/division.
Step 1 — READ (3–5 minutes)
The Order of Operations
Remember:
PEMDAS
- P → Grouping Symbols ( ), [ ], { }
- E → Exponents
- MD → Multiplication & Division (LEFT → RIGHT)
- AS → Addition & Subtraction (LEFT → RIGHT)
⭐ Multiplication and Division are teammates.
Neither comes first.
Always work left to right.
Example:
↓
↓
- 4\times2=-8
Addition & Subtraction are also teammates.
Always move left to right.
Example:
↓
↓
Watch Out for Negatives
If subtraction is immediately followed by a negative,
the two signs combine into addition.
Example:
↓
↓
Negative Numbers vs. Exponents
The parentheses matter!
Example:
↓
Multiply
↓
⭐ Remember
Work one step at a time.
Don't try to do everything in your head.
Write each intermediate step.
Step 2 — WATCH (5–10 minutes)
Watch:
- Organic Chemistry Tutor — Order of Operations (Fractions & Negatives)
OR
- Math with Mr. J — Order of Operations
Step 3 — TRY IT YOURSELF
1.
2.
3.
4.
⭐ Strategy
Whenever a problem has several operations,
follow this process:
- Find any grouping symbols.
- Solve exponents.
- Work multiplication & division left → right.
- Work addition & subtraction left → right.
- Rewrite the problem after every step.
Writing one line at a time helps prevent careless mistakes.
Come Prepared
⭐ Bring any questions you have.
If a problem feels confusing, don't rush—write one step, rewrite the expression, then continue.