Order of operations puzzles frequently go viral online because they highlight how easily standard arithmetic rules can be overlooked. While the equation may appear long at first glance, applying standard order of operations rules makes it straightforward to solve.
In the math brain teaser graphic above, the problem is presented as:
Header: “PLEASE DO NOT USE A CALCULATOR. USE YOUR BRAIN:”
Mathematical Equation:
50 + 50 – 25 × 0 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = ?
In this guide, we break down the equation step by step using standard order of operations (PEMDAS / BODMAS).
Strategy Overview
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Order of Operations (PEMDAS) |
+---------------------------+----------------------------+
|
v
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Step 1: Multiplication | Step 2: Addition/Sub. |
| - 25 x 0 = 0 | - 50 + 50 - 0 |
| | - + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 |
+---------------------------+----------------------------+
|
v
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Final Calculation |
| - 100 + 8 = 108 |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
Step-by-Step Mathematical Solution
According to the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS):
-
Parentheses / Brackets: None present.
-
Exponents / Orders: None present.
-
Multiplication and Division: Perform multiplication first from left to right.
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Calculate $25 \times 0 = 0$.
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Substitute back into the equation: $50 + 50 – 0 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2$.
-
-
Addition and Subtraction: Perform addition and subtraction sequentially from left to right:
-
$50 + 50 = 100$
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$100 – 0 = 100$
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$100 + 2 = 102$
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$102 + 2 = 104$
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$104 + 2 = 106$
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$106 + 2 = 108$
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Step-by-Step Calculation Breakdown Table
| Step Number | Operation Performed | Equation State | Value Result |
| Original | Given Equation | $50 + 50 – 25 \times 0 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2$ | — |
| Step 1 | Multiplication ($25 \times 0$) | $50 + 50 – 0 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2$ | $0$ |
| Step 2 | Addition ($50 + 50$) | $100 – 0 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2$ | $100$ |
| Step 3 | Subtraction ($100 – 0$) | $100 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2$ | $100$ |
| Step 4 | Final Additions | $100 + 8$ | 108 |
Mental Agility, Brain Health, and Problem Solving
Practicing mental arithmetic and solving logic puzzles keeps working memory sharp and enhances cognitive processing speed.
Engaging in regular mental math exercises directly supports overall brain health and analytical reasoning skills. Cultivating strong numerical fluency benefits professionals across corporate and business disciplines, helping individuals track personal finance calculations accurately, evaluate data sets, and maintain cognitive sharpness well into retirement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Order of Operations Puzzles
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Ignoring Multiplication Priority: Working strictly from left to right ($50 + 50 = 100$, $100 – 25 = 75$, $75 \times 0 = 0$) is a common error that leads to an incorrect result of $8$.
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Assuming Multiplying by Zero Zeroes the Entire Equation: Multiplying $25 \times 0$ only reduces that specific term to zero, not the terms added or subtracted before and after it.
Conclusion
By following the standard order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS), the final correct answer is 108.
Did you get 108 on your first try? Share your answer in the comments below!
FAQ Section
What is the correct order of operations rule?
The order of operations is remembered using acronyms like PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) or BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division/Multiplication, Addition/Subtraction).
Why does 25 x 0 equal 0?
Any real number multiplied by zero equals zero according to the multiplicative property of zero.
