Monday Mystery: Maths Jedi use BIDMAS

Posted by Colin Ward on 3rd Feb 2020

Have you ever seen one of those irritating posts on Facebook that claims there is simply no way anyone will "get this right?"

6 + 5 x 4 - 3

Usually, most responses will give two different answers and you'll be invited to click on a link to find out the "mystery answer." Then you find yourself click-baited into a mass of advertising and need to scroll and scroll to find the answer.

Let's save you the hassle when you miss your bus stop whilst trying to find that mystery answer amidst Amazon and Argos ads.

Get your Maths in order
We take it step-by step, right?

6 + 5 x 4 - 3

6 + 5 = 11. You're right about that, well done. Then;
11 x 4 = 44. You're right about that, too. So;
44 - 3 = 41. Well done. Dust off your hands; back to work.

BUT something is niggling at you, isn't it? What's all the arguing about? Why does that post have 4,821 comments? It can't be that interesting, can it? But social media likes to make "debate" where there is none.

YES, you WERE taught this in school...

You might not remember, but I must stand up for teachers and their hours of frustration. You may have forgotten it, and that's okay. So, here's a reminder:

ALWAYS complete the multiplication first.

Don't worry what BarryBoy1997 is trying to argue. Trust in Maths. Let maths be your Yoda. Because, sometimes, Maths has to speak a bit like Yoda: "Multiplication first, you must do".

6 + 5 x 4 - 3. Let's do the hard Yoda bit first. Multiply like a Jedi;

6 + (5x4) - 3. These are the numbers you are looking for*;

6 + (20) - 3. Tidy up a little bit;

26 - 3. And with a final flurry of a light sabre;

23.

6 + 5 x 4 - 3 = 23

Every time you are faced with a calculation like this, ask yourself:

"Do I have the TIMEs to start this?" - that will remind you where to begin.

And finish accurately, you will.

*Yes, I am aware that's technically an Obiwan Kenobi or Skywalker reference...

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