At first glance, the expression 10 ÷ 5 × 2 − 1 looks incredibly simple. Yet it often sparks debates because many people arrive at different answers. Some choose 4, others pick 1, while the correct answer is actually something else.
Let’s solve it step by step.
The Problem
10 ÷ 5 × 2 − 1 = ?
To solve this correctly, we need to follow the order of operations.
The basic rule is:
- Perform division and multiplication first.
- If both appear together, calculate from left to right.
- Finally, perform addition and subtraction.
Step 1: Division
Start from the left:
10 ÷ 5 = 2
Now the expression becomes:
2 × 2 − 1
Step 2: Multiplication
Next:
2 × 2 = 4
Now we have:
4 − 1
Step 3: Subtraction
Finally:
4 − 1 = 3
✅ Correct Answer: 3
The correct result is:
10 ÷ 5 × 2 − 1 = 3
Neither 4 nor 1 is the final answer.
Why Do So Many People Get It Wrong?
Many people mistakenly calculate 5 × 2 first because they assume multiplication always comes before division.
For example:
- 5 × 2 = 10
- 10 ÷ 10 = 1
- 1 − 1 = 0
This is incorrect because multiplication and division have the same priority. They must be solved from left to right, not based on which operation appears “more important.”
Others stop after getting 4, forgetting to subtract the final 1.
Remember This Simple Rule
When solving expressions, always follow:
Parentheses → Exponents → Multiplication & Division (left to right) → Addition & Subtraction (left to right)
This simple rule helps you avoid many common math mistakes.
Final Answer
🎉 10 ÷ 5 × 2 − 1 = 3
Did you get 3 on your first try, or were you fooled by the order of operations?
👇 Let us know your answer in the comments before checking everyone else’s!
