Answer: 90 – 5(8 + 6)

Did you get it right?

This black-board math puzzle asks you to solve the parentheses before subtracting.

Answer: 90 - 5(8 + 6)

The Answer

The correct answer is: 20.

Here is why

  1. First solve 8 + 6 = 14.
  2. Then multiply 5 x 14 = 70.
  3. Finally 90 – 70 = 20.

Why people miss it

The trap is moving too fast and treating 5(8 + 6) as if it were simple addition.

What answer did you get before checking?