How to Solve a Math Problem Using PEMDAS

PEMDAS is a technique used to solve multi-step math problems. PEMDAS is an acronym and stands for parenthesis, exponents, multiply, divide, add, and subtract.

Step 1: Identify Parenthesis

The first step in PEMDAS is P=parenthesis.

Identify and underline all sets of parenthesis. If there are none, proceed to "Identify Exponents."

Step 2: Solve Parenthesis

Solve the parenthesis you previously underlined. Work from left to right.

Step 3: Rewrite Equation

Replace the parenthesis with the corresponding value.

Step 4: Identify Exponents

The next step in PEMDAS is E=exponents.

Identify and underline all exponents. If there are none proceed to "Identify Multiplication Problems."

Step 5: Solve Exponents

Solve the first set of exponents. Work from left to right.

Step 6: Solve Exponents

Solve the next set of exponents. Work from left to right.

Step 7: Rewrite Equation

Replace the exponents with the corresponding value.

Step 8: Identify Multiplication Problems

The next step in PEMDAS is M=multiplication.

Identify and underline multiplication problems, working from left to right. If there are none, proceed to "Identify Division Problems."

Step 9: Solve Multiplication Problems

Solve the first underlined multiplication problems. Work from left to right.

Step 10: Rewrite Equation

Replace the multiplication problem with the correct value.

Step 11: Identify Division Problems

The next step of PEMDAS is D=division.

Identify and underline all division problems, working from left to right. If there are none, proceed to "Identify Addition Problems."

Step 12: Identify Addition Problems

The next step of PEMDAS is A=addition.

Identify and underline all addition problems, working from left to right. If there are none proceed to "Identify Subtraction Problems."

Step 13: Solve Addition Problems

Solve the underlined addition problems. Work from left to right.

Step 14: Rewrite Equation

Replace the addition problems with the corresponding value.

Step 15: Identify Subtraction Problems

The final step of PEMDAS is S=subtraction.

Identify the subtraction problems. For this equation, this is the only problem left to solve.

Step 16: Find Your Answer

Congratulations, you have used PEMDAS to solve this math equation!

Comments

[tlaci2007]

It's false. Addition and subtraction are equal according to order of operations, so operations must be performed from left to right. So the result is: 81-36+9 = 45+9 = 54

[bakichmg]

Thanks for this. I was just arguing with someone about the rules. Showed this to assist with correct procedure.

[audreyobscura]

Cool tips! Thanks for the share!