Answer: 30 – 3(4 + 5)

Did you get it right?

This math puzzle looks short, but the parentheses matter.

Answer: 30 - 3(4 + 5)

The Answer

The correct answer is: 3.

Here is why

  1. First solve the parentheses: 4 + 5 = 9.
  2. Then multiply: 3 x 9 = 27.
  3. Finally subtract: 30 – 27 = 3.

Why people miss it

People often subtract too early or forget that 3 next to parentheses means multiplication.

What answer did you get before checking?