What is PEMDAS?
PEMDAS is an acronym that tells you which mathematical operation to perform first.
P → E → M/D → A/S
Remember: Multiplication does not outrank Division! If division comes first from left to right, divide first.
MathematicsGrades 5–8Intermediate
Order of Operations (PEMDAS): The Complete Guide with Examples
Avoid the most common math traps by mastering the correct order of operations.
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Sparky Academic TeamCurriculum Specialist
5 min readUpdated 2026-09-17
Quick Summary / TL;DR
Solve math equations in strict hierarchical order: Parentheses first, Exponents second, Multiplication & Division from left to right, Addition & Subtraction from left to right.
Core Equation / Rule:
P → E → (M / D) → (A / S)
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The 4-Step Solving Process
1
Parentheses & Grouping
2 × (3 + 4) = 2 × 7 = 14
Evaluate everything inside brackets or parentheses first.
2
Exponents & Roots
32 + 5 = 9 + 5 = 14
Calculate powers and roots before any standard arithmetic.
3
Multiply and Divide (Left to Right)
12 ÷ 3 × 2 = 4 × 2 = 8
Multiplication and Division have equal rank! Always evaluate them from left to right as you read.
4
Add and Subtract (Left to Right)
10 - 4 + 2 = 6 + 2 = 8
Addition and Subtraction also have equal priority. Work them from left to right.
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