Order of Operations, Part 1
Order of Operations Part 1 introduces the PEMDAS hierarchy in Grade 6 Saxon Math Course 1: Parentheses first, then Exponents, then Multiplication and Division (left to right), then Addition and Subtraction (left to right). For 8 + 3 × 4 − 2: multiply first (3 × 4 = 12), then add and subtract left to right (8 + 12 − 2 = 18). Without consistent order, the same expression produces different values. PEMDAS ensures every mathematical community gets the same answer.
Key Concepts
Definition A set of rules determining the sequence for solving expressions. Operations are performed left to right, but parentheses indicate which part to solve first. What’s next This lesson introduces the foundational rules for sequencing. You'll apply these principles in worked examples with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Common Questions
What is the order of operations (PEMDAS)?
Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (left to right), Addition and Subtraction (left to right).
Evaluate 8 + 3 × 4 − 2.
Multiply first: 3 × 4 = 12. Then left to right: 8 + 12 − 2 = 18.
Evaluate 20 ÷ 4 + 3 × 2.
Division and multiplication first (left to right): 5 + 6 = 11.
Do multiplication and division have equal priority?
Yes. When multiplication and division both appear, perform them left to right in the order they appear.
Why do we need a fixed order of operations?
Without a universal rule, the same expression could give different values. PEMDAS ensures everyone calculates the same answer.