Introduction: 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!