What is PEMDAS?
PEMDAS is an acronym for parentheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction. Following PEMDAS allows us to solve multi-step problems by completing each operation in the correct order.
How does PEMDAS work?
Give me a P! Give me an E! Give me an M!… OK, you get the idea.
- P is for parentheses. When trying to solve a multi-operation problem, always calculate the sum of the parentheses first. So, make sure you solve whatever’s inside these guys (…) before you do anything else; otherwise, you’ll get the wrong answer. If your equation has no parentheses, move on to the next step.
- E is for exponents. Next up, you will solve the exponents known as powers and roots. For example, if your equation looks like 4 x 8² + 12, you should square 8 before doing anything else.
- M and D are for multiplication and division. In the PEMDAS system, these have equal ranks. With equations that feature more than one multiplication and division element, solve them in the order they appear, from left to right.
- A and S are for addition and subtraction. These should be the last calculations you perform. And just as above, you should complete your addition and subtraction calculations in order from left to right.
How do you remember PEMDAS?
Mnemonics are one of the most effective ways of helping children memorize PEMDAS. A mnemonic is a short, catchy saying in which every word starts with a letter from the acronym you’re trying to remember. The most commonly used PEMDAS mnemonic is, please excuse my dear Aunt Sally. Another of our favorites is penguins eat maple donuts after sunset. Why not try and write a PEMDAS mnemonic with your students?
How does PEMDAS benefit students?
PEMDAS allows children to simplify and break down complex equations into manageable chunks. It helps them tackle problems with multiple operations without feeling overwhelmed and lays the groundwork for middle school algebra learning.
