Social media is full of brain teasers, riddles, and math puzzles that spark heated debates in the comments section. One of the latest challenges making the rounds is surprisingly simple at first glance:
20 – 8 × 2 + 10 = ?
Many people confidently give an answer within seconds, only to discover that they may have overlooked one of the most important rules in mathematics.
So, what’s the correct answer? More importantly, why do so many people get it wrong?
Let’s break it down and explore the fascinating world of mathematical order of operations.
Why Simple Math Puzzles Go Viral
At first glance, this equation seems easy enough for a child to solve. After all, it only contains four numbers and a few basic operations.
However, that’s exactly why these puzzles become so popular.
When people see a simple equation, they often rush to answer without carefully applying mathematical rules. As a result, different people arrive at different answers, leading to endless debates online.
Some say the answer is 34.
Others insist it’s 14.
A few even claim it’s 24.
But mathematics isn’t based on opinions. There is only one correct answer.
The Secret Rule Behind the Puzzle
To solve this challenge correctly, we must follow the Order of Operations.
This rule tells us the sequence in which calculations must be performed.
Many countries teach it using acronyms such as:
- PEMDAS
- BODMAS
- BIDMAS
