Do Not Skip the Parentheses: Math Puzzle Answer

Did you get it right?

This blackboard puzzle asks you to solve 6 x (8 – 2). The parentheses come first.

Do Not Skip the Parentheses: Math Puzzle Answer

The Answer

The correct answer is: The answer is 36..

Here is why

  1. Solve inside the parentheses first: 8 – 2 = 6.
  2. Then multiply: 6 x 6.
  3. 6 x 6 = 36.

Why people miss it

People miss this when they multiply too early and forget that the parentheses control the first step.

What answer did you get before checking?