At first glance, this equation looks very easy, but many people make the same mistake by solving it from left to right. The key is to remember the order of operations.
Equation:
18 − 2 × 5 = ?
Step 1: Multiply first
According to the order of operations, multiplication comes before subtraction.
2 × 5 = 10
Now the equation becomes:
18 − 10
Step 2: Subtract
18 − 10 = 8
✅ Correct Answer: B. 8
Why do so many people get it wrong?
Many people calculate it like this:
- 18 − 2 = 16
- 16 × 5 = 80
This is incorrect because it ignores the order of operations.
Remember the rule:
- Parentheses
- Exponents
- Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
- Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)
Final Answer: B. 8 ✅