Answer: 144 Divided by 12 Plus 6 Times 5 Minus 2

Did you get it right?

The equation is 144 / 12 + 6 x (5 – 2).

The Answer

The correct answer is: 30.

Here is why

1. Complete the parentheses first: 5 – 2 = 3.
2. Then divide and multiply: 144 / 12 = 12 and 6 x 3 = 18.
3. Add the results: 12 + 18 = 30.

Why people miss it

Working left to right before completing the parentheses changes the intended order of operations.

What answer did you get before checking?