1. Order of Operations

2. Order of Operations
A standard way to
simplify mathematical
expressions and
equations.

3. Purpose
 Avoids Confusion
 Gives Consistency
For example:
8 + 3 * 4 = 11 * 4 = 44
Or does it equal
8 + 3 * 4 = 8 + 12 = 20

4. Order of operations are a set of rules
that mathematicians have agreed to
follow to avoid mass CONFUSION
when simplifying mathematical expressions
or equations. Without these simple, but
important rules, learning mathematics would
be maddening.

5. The Rules
1. Simplify within Grouping Symbols
( ), { }, [ ], | |
2. Simplify Exponents
Raise to Powers
3. Complete Multiplication and Division
from Left to Right
4. Complete Addition and Subtraction
from Left to Right

6. Back to Our Example
For example:
8 + 3 * 4 = 11 * 4 = 44
Or does it equal
8 + 3 * 4 = 8 + 12 = 20
Using order of operations, we do the
multiplication first. So what’s our
answer?
20

7. How can we remember it?
 Parenthesis - Please
 Exponents - Excuse
 Multiplication - My
 Division - Dear
 Addition - Aunt
 Subtraction - Sally

8. Summary
 Key points to remember that will give
audience confidence or improve morale