How to Solve a problem using PEMDAS

Question

P.E.M.D.A.S.

Parenthesis

Exponents

Multiplication

Division

Addition

Subtraction

Question 1

2(5-1)+1-1

Question 2

2(5x-1)+1-1:

Answer 1

In order to begin solving a problem using PEMDAS, first you have to know what each letter stands for.

P= Parenthesis

E = Exponents

M = Multiplication

D = Division

A = Addition

S = Subtraction

Next, you would solve the equation in order of importance. Parenthesis would take priority and the numbers inside of them would have to be solved first before any other operation. Exponents would be solved next. Multiplication and Division are equally important. When you come across these operations, you solve which ever operations comes first as you solve the problem from left to right. Follow the same reasoning for Addition and Subtraction. Here is an example:

9 - 5 :/ (8-3) x 2 + 6 = ?

9 - 5 :/ 5 x 2 + 6 =?

9 - 1 x 2 + 6 =?

9 - 2 + 6 = ?

7 + 6 = 13

First, you solve 8 - 3 because it is in parenthesis. Copy the problem on the next line with the solution (5). Next, there are no exponents so you move down the PEMDAS chart to Multiplication and Division. Since they are of equal importance, and you are solving from left to right, division comes first in the equation so solve 5 :/ 5. Copy the problem on the next line with the solution (1). After that, since multiplication is of higher importance in the PEMDAS chart over Addition and Subtraction, you solve 1 x 2. Copy the problem on the next line with the solution (2). Finish the problem left to right and solve 9 - 2 because Addition and Subtraction are of equal importance. Copy the problem on the next line with the solution (7). Lastly, solve 7 + 6 to get your final answer of 13.

Answer 2

Steps for #1

Subtract one from five-as it is in parentheses.

The exponent is one.

Multiply this answer by two.

Add one.

Subtract 1.

Answer:

2(4)+0 = 8

Following the same process for #2 can you obtain an answer?

It should be 10x-2.