Prioritize Addition- Mastering the Order of Operations with ‘Do You Add Before You Multiply-‘

Do you add before you multiply? This question might seem like a simple mathematical inquiry, but it can actually lead to a deeper understanding of arithmetic operations and their order of precedence. In this article, we will explore the importance of following the correct order of operations, specifically focusing on whether to add before multiplying or vice versa.

Arithmetic operations are fundamental to mathematics, and understanding their order of precedence is crucial for solving complex problems accurately. The order of operations is a set of rules that dictate the sequence in which mathematical operations should be performed. The most commonly used order of operations is known as PEMDAS, which stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), and Addition and Subtraction (from left to right).

When it comes to multiplication and addition, the order of operations dictates that you should perform multiplication before addition. This is because multiplication and division are considered higher-order operations than addition and subtraction. In other words, they have a higher priority in the sequence of operations.

Let’s take a simple example to illustrate this point. Suppose we have the expression 2 + 3 4. If we were to add before multiplying, we would get 2 + 12, which equals 14. However, if we follow the correct order of operations and multiply first, we get 3 4, which equals 12, and then add 2, resulting in the correct answer of 14.

Ignoring the order of operations and adding before multiplying can lead to incorrect results. For instance, consider the expression 6 + 2 3. If we were to add before multiplying, we would get 6 + 6, which equals 12. However, if we follow the correct order of operations, we would multiply first, resulting in 2 3, which equals 6, and then add 6, giving us the correct answer of 12.

To avoid making mistakes in your calculations, it’s essential to remember the order of operations. A helpful mnemonic to remember PEMDAS is “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally,” which represents the sequence of operations in order of priority.

In conclusion, the answer to the question “Do you add before you multiply?” is a resounding no. Following the correct order of operations, specifically multiplying before adding, ensures that your calculations are accurate and consistent. By understanding and applying the principles of arithmetic operations and their order of precedence, you can become a more proficient and confident mathematician.