Did you get it right?
This blackboard puzzle asks you to solve 4 x (8 – 5) + 2. The parentheses are the first thing to handle.

The Answer
The correct answer is: The answer is 14..
Here is why
- Do the parentheses first: 8 – 5 = 3.
- Then multiply: 4 x 3 = 12.
- Finally add 2, so 12 + 2 = 14.
Why people miss it
Some people rush through the expression and miss that the parentheses must be solved before multiplying.
What answer did you get before checking?