BODMAS

Mathematics is a universal language that is used to solve logical problems. It has its systems and set of rules that help us arrive at accurate and precise solutions. One such essential rule every math student must learn is the BODMAS rule.



BODMAS is an acronym for Brackets, Order, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction. It is a rule used to solve mathematical expressions that have more than one operation. The BODMAS rule helps to clarify the order of operations that must be followed to achieve the correct solution without ambiguity.

B- Bracket

O-Of/ Order

D- Division

M- Multiplication

A-Addition

S-Subtraction

 

Let's take a look at each letter in the acronym, and what it stands for with some examples:

 

B - Brackets - This refers to any expressions that are enclosed in brackets, parentheses, or braces. You must resolve the content within the brackets in the following order of operations before you proceed with the rest of the expression. For example:

 

        6 x (7 - 2) = ?

 

        6 x (7 - 2) = 6 x 5 = 30

 

O - Orders - This refers to any roots or exponents in the equation. You must resolve this first before you proceed with the other operations. For example:

 

        4² / 2³ = ?

 

        4² / 2³ = 16 / 8 = 2

 

D - Division - Next, tackle division in the equation. Wherever you see a division operation, divide one number by the other. For example:

 

        24 ÷ 4 / 2 = ?

 

        24 ÷ 4 / 2 = 6 / 2 = 3

 

M - Multiplication - This comes after division. Whenever you see a multiplication operation, multiply one number by the other. For example:

 

        5 + 2 x 3 - 4 ÷ 2 = ?

 

        5 + 2 x 3 - 4 ÷ 2 = 5 + 6 - 2 = 9

 

A - Addition - This comes last after you've dealt with division and multiplication. Whenever you see an addition operation, sum the numbers. For example:

 

        10 / (2 + 2) + 3 x 4 = ?

 

        10 / (2 + 2) + 3 x 4 = 10 / 4 + 12 = 2.5 + 12 = 14.5

 

S - Subtraction - This comes last after you've dealt with addition. Whenever you see a subtraction operation, subtract one number from the other. For example:

 

        24 - 7 + 8 / 4 x 3 = ?

 

        24 - 7 + 8 / 4 x 3 = 24 - 7 + 6 x 3 = 24 - 7 + 18 = 35

 

In conclusion, the BODMAS rule is a vital mathematical concept that every math student should master. It enables us to solve complex problems by following a sequence of operations to get the correct solution. Remember the acronym BODMAS, and you will be on your way to mastering this essential rule.