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What is the Order of Operations in Math Year 7?

Published in Math Order of Operations 2 mins read

The order of operations in Year 7 math, often remembered using the acronym BODMAS or PEMDAS, dictates the sequence in which calculations should be performed to ensure consistent and accurate results. It ensures everyone gets the same answer to a calculation.

Understanding BODMAS/PEMDAS

  • Brackets (Parentheses): Calculations within brackets or parentheses are always done first. This applies to all types of brackets, including parentheses ( ), square brackets [ ], and curly braces { }. Remember to follow BODMAS/PEMDAS within the brackets themselves.
  • Orders (Exponents): Next, perform calculations involving exponents or powers (e.g., 2³ = 2 x 2 x 2 = 8).
  • Division and Multiplication: These operations have equal priority and should be done from left to right as they appear in the expression.
  • Addition and Subtraction: These operations also share the same priority and are performed from left to right.

Examples

Let's illustrate with examples:

  • Example 1: 10 + 5 × 2 = ?

    Following BODMAS, multiplication comes before addition:

    1. 5 × 2 = 10
    2. 10 + 10 = 20

    Therefore, 10 + 5 × 2 = 20

  • Example 2: (10 + 5) × 2 = ?

    Brackets take precedence:

    1. 10 + 5 = 15
    2. 15 × 2 = 30

    Therefore, (10 + 5) × 2 = 30

  • Example 3: 12 ÷ 3 × 2 + 4 – 1 = ?

    1. 12 ÷ 3 = 4
    2. 4 × 2 = 8
    3. 8 + 4 = 12
    4. 12 – 1 = 11

    Therefore, 12 ÷ 3 × 2 + 4 – 1 = 11

As noted in the provided references, the order of operations is a crucial concept to ensure accuracy and consistency in mathematical calculations. Different mnemonics may be used (BODMAS, PEMDAS), but the underlying principle remains the same. The order always follows: Brackets/Parentheses, Orders/Exponents, Division and Multiplication (left to right), and Addition and Subtraction (left to right).