How to Use PEMDAS in Math Homework? Know Here!
Are you working on your math homework with complete cluelessness? Well, then, here is something interesting and helpful you should know about. It will help you.

Math problems can be difficult, especially multistep questions. Many students may even seek math homework help from friends and teachers when they find it very confusing and time-consuming. However, overcoming this challenge is simple—just remember to follow PEMDAS. This ensures that you solve problems in the correct sequence every time.
PEMDAS is the abbreviation that helps find the order of operations. It assists students in doing calculations sequentially. This way, all those involved get the right response. The letters in PEMDAS stand for:
P: Parentheses
E: Exponents
M: Multiplication
D: Division
A: Addition
S: Subtraction
A case in point is the equation: 6 + 3 x 2.
Now, if taken from left to right, the result is 18. It may seem logical that 6 + 3 × 2 = 18. But thanks to PEMDAS, it is understood that multiplication comes first. Therefore, the correct answer ought to be 12. So, PEMDAS is very useful. It is a standard. It ensures that everyone who works on a problem receives the same correct answer.
This article will explain how to use PEMDAS. First, let’s break it down into simple steps and provide examples. Indeed, these steps will help you solve any complex problem with confidence.
Why PEMDAS Is Your Best Friend in Assignment Writing?
Imagine if people answered math questions using random approaches. For instance, one person might begin with addition, while another might prioritize multiplication. Without the PEMDAS formula, the solutions would be disorganized.
PEMDAS eliminates confusion and ensures consistency when performing calculations. For students, it is vital. It helps break big, scary tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Additionally, it builds confidence in using the right method to find the correct solution.
Indeed, mastering PEMDAS is one of the most essential math skills for college. It ensures accuracy, saves time, and makes solving problems much simpler. So, the next time you are struggling with math and thinking, 'I need to do my assignment,' remember that following PEMDAS will make it much easier.
Now that you know PEMDAS, let's apply it in a step.
1. Solve Anything in Parentheses
The first consideration is dealing with anything in parentheses. Always eliminate anything within a pair of parentheses first. Such as: (5 + 3) × 2
Firstly, resolve the brackets, which equals 8
Then, multiply the above by the rest, which gives 16
But if there are several sets of parentheses, solve each one starting with the rightmost.
2. Work on Exponents
An exponent means the power to raise a number. For example: 2³ + 5
Solve for the exponent: 2³ = 2 × 2 × 2 = 8.
Addition: 8 + 5 equals 13.
Exponents seem complex at first. But, with practice, they become simple quickly.
3. Multiply or Divide from Left to Right
Next, both operations are equally important, so always solve them from left to right as they appear in the problem. As an example, 12 ÷ 4 × 3.
First, divide 12 by 4 to get 3. Multiplying 3 × 3 = 9 is step two.
To prevent mistakes, it is therefore imperative to work from left to right. You may get the incorrect answer if you multiply first rather than divide.
4. Add or Subtract from Left to Right
Finally, like multiplication and division, solve them in the order they appear, moving left to right. Taking this scenario, for instance: 15 - 4 + 2, you can break it down into a two-step process.
First, subtract 4 from 15. This gives you 11.
Next, add 2 to 11. The final result is 13.
PEMDAS helps one always get the right answer. No matter how hard a problem looks, it is easy to solve.
5. Few More Examples
Let’s try a more complex example to see how PEMDAS works:
(3 + 2) × 2² - 10 ÷ 5
Step 1: The bracket indicates that this operation must be done first. Therefore, you should perform the following operation: 3 + 2 which results in 5.
Next,
Step 2: The exponent 2² = 4.
Then,
Step 3: For multiplication, 5 times 4 equals 20.
Then,
Step 4: To divide, so 10 by 5 gives 2. So 20 - 2 equals 18.
And finally, make sure to verify the answer (to avoid mistakes).
Common Mistakes to Avoid in PEMDAS Homework
PEMDAS is easy to misuse. Small errors can lead to wrong answers in equations. Here are a few mistakes that are common:
- Skipping Parentheses: Always solve parentheses first, no matter how simple they seem.
- Mixing Up Multiplication and Division: Remember, these are equally important. Always solve them from left to right.
- Ignoring Exponents: Exponents can completely change the answer if missed, so handle them carefully.
- Rushing Through Steps: Take your time to solve each step in the correct order. For instance, if you’re solving a tricky problem, writing out each step can help avoid confusion. Additionally, reviewing your work before turning in your assignment ensures accuracy.
- Not Practicing Math Enough: Like many things, the technique PEMDAS can be tricky to learn. The effort, though, is worth it. Failure becomes less frequent with more attempts and practice. In conclusion, practice reduces the chance of failure. It saves you time and energy.
Look for help if the concepts are confusing and the ideas are difficult to understand. It could be a teacher, a classmate, or any person who is willing to help you – help can do a lot.
Fun Ways to Remember PEMDAS
One famous mnemonic for PEMDAS is “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally." Each word corresponds to a step:
- Please: Parentheses
- Excuse: Exponents
- My: Multiplication
- Dear: Division
- Aunt: Addition
- Sally: Subtraction
Similarly, you can create your own fun sentence, like: “Pizza Every Monday, Delicious And Spicy.” These memory tricks make PEMDAS easy to recall, even when you’re under pressure.
Conclusion
The math gets easier when you apply PEMDAS, don't you agree? By applying this rule, you can calculate progressively. If you are stuck and need math homework help, you can rely on trusted sources for assistance. It could be your teachers or peers or any online forums. With continual practice, there is no doubt that you will learn quickly and become very good at math.
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