5th Grade · Operations & Algebraic Thinking

Order of Operations

5.OA.A.1

Definition

The agreed order for solving an expression: grouping symbols first, then multiply/divide, then add/subtract, left to right.

Examples

  • 2 + 3 x 4 = 2 + 12 = 14 (multiply before adding).
  • (2 + 3) x 4 = 5 x 4 = 20 (parentheses first).

Key rule

Do grouping symbols first, then multiply/divide, then add/subtract, left to right.

Memory hook

Grouping symbols, then multiply/divide, then add/subtract.