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Year 7
Order of Operations (BIDMAS)
Definition
BIDMAS is the order in which calculations are worked out: Brackets, Indices, Division and Multiplication, then Addition and Subtraction. Following it makes sure everyone reaches the same answer.
Why Do I Have to Learn This?
The order of operations is the rule that stops one sum having two different answers. It keeps everyone’s working, and every calculator, in agreement.
Key Rules:
- 1. Work out brackets first, then indices.
- 2. Do division and multiplication next, from left to right.
- 3. Do addition and subtraction last.
Remember:
- •Multiplication comes before addition, so 2 + 3 × 4 is 14, not 20.
- •Brackets let you change the order.
- •Work left to right when operations are equal.
BIDMAS
The order for working things out: Brackets, Indices, Division and Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction.
In 2 + 3 × 4 you multiply first, so the answer is 14, not 20.
Animated Example:
(5 + 3) × 2² − 6
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Free Order of Operations (BIDMAS) Worksheet
Download free worksheets and practise today.
Every download has a fresh set of questions.
Let’s Practise the Concept
Step 1 of 3
Put them in order
Tap the numbers from smallest to largest.
In order so far: nothing yet