Are you ready for a fun and challenging math puzzle? This equation might seem simple at first glance, but it requires sharp attention to detail. Many people get tripped up by rushing through the problem without following the correct steps. Do you have what it takes to solve it correctly?
Take a deep breath, focus, and let’s put your math skills to the test!
The Puzzle: Can You Get the Right Answer?
Let’s start with the equation:
3 – 3 × 6 + 2 = ?
Looks easy, right? But don’t rush! The way you approach this problem determines whether you get the correct answer or fall into the common trap.
Think you have it figured out? Hold onto your answer and keep reading to see if you got it right!
Common Mistakes People Make in Math Puzzles
Many people quickly look at a problem like this and start solving it from left to right without considering the order of operations. This is where things go wrong.
If you’re not familiar with PEMDAS, this acronym helps you remember the correct sequence:
-Parentheses
-Exponents
-Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
-Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)
-Ignoring this rule often leads to incorrect answers, even if your calculations are otherwise correct.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Solution
Now, let’s go step by step to ensure we solve this equation correctly.
Step 1: Apply the Order of Operations
The equation is:
3 – 3 × 6 + 2 = ?
According to PEMDAS, multiplication comes before subtraction and addition. So, the first step is:
3 × 6 = 18
Now, rewrite the equation with this value substituted:
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3 – 18 + 2 = ?
Step 2: Perform Subtraction and Addition from Left to Right
Now, move through the problem from left to right:
3 – 18 = -15
Now add 2 to -15:
-15 + 2 = -13
The Correct Answer Is -13
Did you get it right? If so, great job! If not, don’t worry—this is exactly why math puzzles like these help sharpen our skills.
Why Understanding Order of Operations Is Important
Puzzles like this demonstrate why following PEMDAS is so essential. Many people mistakenly solve the problem in a different order, leading to incorrect answers. Some might solve it like this instead:
3 – 3 = 0
0 × 6 = 0
0 + 2 = 2
This incorrect approach gives 2 instead of -13—a common mistake that happens when multiplication isn’t prioritized before subtraction.
Math Puzzles Keep Your Brain Sharp
Solving puzzles isn’t just a fun challenge—it’s a great way to keep your brain active and improve problem-solving skills. Whether you love math or find it challenging, engaging with tricky equations like this one helps reinforce logical thinking.
Try More Math Challenges
Now that you’ve solved this equation, why not try more puzzles? Challenge yourself with other tricky problems, and share them with friends and family. See who can solve them the fastest—just make sure they follow PEMDAS correctly!
Conclusion
The answer to 3 – 3 × 6 + 2 is -13, and the key to solving it correctly is following the order of operations. These kinds of math puzzles remind us why structure and logic are so important in calculations.
Did you get the right answer? If not, don’t worry—math is all about learning from mistakes. Keep challenging yourself, and soon, equations like this will be second nature.
Now, go ahead and share this puzzle with someone else and see if they can get it right!Got 30 Seconds? Try Solving This Equation and Share Your Answer with Us!
