EDEXCEL GCSE FOUNDATION MATHS - What is the Order of Operations

Edexcel GCSE Foundation Maths: Order of Operations

The order of operations is a set of rules that tells us the order in which we should perform calculations in a mathematical expression. We use the acronym BODMAS to help us remember the order:

• Brackets
• Orders (powers and roots)
• Division and Multiplication (from left to right)
• Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)

Let's break down each part:

1. Brackets:

• Calculate anything inside brackets first.

Example:

2 + (3 x 4) 

We calculate 3 x 4 = 12 first, then add 2, giving us 14.

2. Orders:

• Calculate powers and roots.

Example:

2 + 3²

We calculate 3² = 9 first, then add 2, giving us 11.

3. Division and Multiplication:

• Perform these operations from left to right.

Example:

6 / 2 x 3

We divide 6 by 2 first (6 / 2 = 3), then multiply by 3 (3 x 3 = 9).

4. Addition and Subtraction:

• Perform these operations from left to right.

Example:

5 + 2 - 1

We add 5 and 2 first (5 + 2 = 7), then subtract 1 (7 - 1 = 6).

Example Problem:

Solve the following expression using BODMAS:

10 - (3 + 2)² / 5 x 2

Solution:

1. Brackets: (3 + 2) = 5
2. Orders: 5² = 25
3. Division: 25 / 5 = 5
4. Multiplication: 5 x 2 = 10
5. Subtraction: 10 - 10 = 0

Therefore, the answer is 0.

Practice Makes Perfect!

Work through some practice problems using BODMAS to solidify your understanding. You can find plenty of practice questions online and in textbooks.

Remember: Following the order of operations ensures we get the correct answer every time!