Develop your mental abilities without using a calculator

Discover how to approach mathematical expressions methodically to avoid pitfalls and improve your problem-solving skills.

Solving a mathematical problem

Let's calculate 50 + 10 × 0 + 7 + 2

Meaning of BODMAS

BODMAS represents an acronym to define  the order of operations in mathematics  as follows:

• B  – Parentheses
• O  -Orders ( Orders or powers )
• Division D  – Division
• M  – Multiplication
• A  – Addition or addition
• S  – Subtraction

Applying this rule for maximum accuracy

Steps to follow to solve the expression

Follow the order of operations

No parentheses or exponents here, so  let's start with the multiplication.

10 × 0 = 0

The expression simplifies to:
50 + 0 + 7 + 2

Perform the additions from left to right

• 50 + 0 = 50
• 50 + 7 = 57
• 57 + 2 = 59

The final result is: 59

Mistakes to avoid

If your answer is  9 , you may have mixed up  the operations , adding before multiplying. This goes against the Bodmas rule, which always prioritizes multiplication first.

A mnemonic device

Imagine a pyramid where each level indicates a priority:

1. Multiplication and Division  (top of the pyramid).
2. Addition and Subtraction  (base of the pyramid).

By respecting this hierarchy, you can  avoid mistakes .

An essential method for everyone

Whether for exercises, puzzles, or simply to  improve your skills , the BODMAS method remains an indispensable tool. Try solving similar problems  without a calculator  to test your logic!