Answer Is NOT 24? Math Puzzle Explained

Did you get it right?

This arithmetic puzzle asks: 72 – 6(8 + 3) = ? The trick is following the order of operations.

Answer Is NOT 24? Math Puzzle Explained

The Answer

The correct answer is: 6.

Here is why

  1. 8 + 3 = 11
  2. 6 x 11 = 66
  3. 72 – 66 = 6

Why people miss it

Many people subtract too early. Parentheses and multiplication must be solved before the final subtraction.

What answer did you get before checking?