In summary: this is why many people are mistaken on this issue.
50 + 50 − 25 × 0 + 2
We begin with multiplication:
25 × 0 = 0
The operation therefore becomes:
50 + 50 − 0 + 2
Now, we calculate from left to right:
50 + 50 = 100
100 − 0 = 100
100 + 2 = 102
The correct answer is therefore 102.
Why our brain is almost always wrong
There’s a very simple reason for this common mistake: our brain loves shortcuts. It looks for the fastest solution, not necessarily the most correct one.
When we see a sequence of numbers, our brain wants to go from left to right because it’s simpler and faster. Thinking about the order of operations requires a little extra effort, and in everyday life, we often operate on autopilot.
That’s exactly why this type of calculation goes viral on the internet: it traps our instinctive way of thinking.
A little tip to never make a mistake again
There is a very simple trick to remember the order of operations:
Always think: multiplication and division first, addition and subtraction last.
If you see a calculation with several different operations, first look for the multiplications and divisions. Do them first, and only then do the rest from left to right.
It’s a small habit to get into, but it avoids a lot of mistakes, even on simple calculations.
Key takeaways
This mathematical trap mainly shows one interesting thing: sometimes it is not the difficulty that makes us make mistakes, but haste.
We think it’s easy, so we go too fast, and that’s where we make a mistake.
This shows that even a primary school level operation can trap thousands of adults simply because a basic rule is forgotten.
Sometimes the right answer is not the fastest, but the one you take the time to check.
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