Did you get it right?
This blackboard puzzle asks you to solve 8 + 8 x 2 – 5 without using a calculator. The trick is to follow the correct order of operations.
The Answer
The correct answer is: The answer is 19..
Here is why
- Do multiplication first: 8 x 2 = 16.
- Then calculate 8 + 16 – 5.
- 8 + 16 = 24, and 24 – 5 = 19.
Why people miss it
Many people solve it from left to right and do 8 + 8 first, but multiplication comes before addition and subtraction.
What answer did you get before checking?
