Math can be a tricky subject, and even a seemingly simple problem can trip you up, especially if you’ve forgotten the rules of basic arithmetic. Let’s see if you can solve this:
Problem: 7 × 7 – 7 ÷ 7 + 7 = ?
Here’s the trick: remember the order of operations, often recalled by the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction). According to these rules:
- Perform multiplication and division first.
- 7 × 7 = 49
- 7 ÷ 7 = 1
- Replace the original problem with these results: 49 – 1 + 7.
- Solve addition and subtraction from left to right:
- 49 – 1 = 48
- 48 + 7 = 55
Answer: 55
Did you figure it out, or did you fall into the left-to-right calculation trap? If you got it, congratulations—bragging rights are yours!
