Parentheses for 7-23-5=-7

Question

The parentheses for the question

Answer 1

We have an order of operations (PEMDAS) equation.  The objective here is to place the parenthesis so that when we perform PEMDAS, the answer will be -7.  Since the only operation taking place here is subtraction, it should make the process easier.  This will be a trial and error process.

 

(7 - 23) - 5 = -7

-16 - 5 = -7

-21 = -7

 

False. We will try shifting the position of the parentheses.

 

7 - (23 - 5) = -7

7 - 18 = -7

-11 = -7

 

False.  We try this again. This time without the parentheses.

 

7 - 23 - 5 = -7

-21 = -7

 

False.

 

It does not seem that the left side of the equation will result in -7.