Discussion Question
According to the classical definition, order of operations is a sequence of actions needed for the salvation of a mathematical problem. It defines which procedures should be performed first in order to receive a correct final result.
Simple order rules assume the next terms:
1) Calculation should be completed starting from the left,
2) Results in brackets should be done first, then go the exponents,
3) Multiplication and division should be done in the order as operations occur,
4) Addition and subtraction should also be done in the way the operations occur.
Example: 4* (10-5) +3.
1)10-5=5
2)4*5=20
3)20+3=23
Result: 23.
Any violation of the rules will automatically lead to the wrong result. This means that even if future operations will be done correctly, the general outcome is already spoiled. This effect is similar to a chain where every link creates a general unity.
The history of operations order research goes back to the ancient would, and it is really hard to imagine that something else can be adjusted in the classical sequence directions. However, I think about some useful new advices that would make the process of salvation more clear. First of all, I would advise everyone to study the original rules, because the basic is the simplest thing. In order to remember the sequence better, you may use the acronym: Blue Eggs Don’t Make Any Sense. (Brackets, Exponents, Divide, Multiply, Add, Subtract)
References
Order of Operations. 2011. Retrieved from:
http://math.about.com/library/weekly/aa040502a.htm
