FOCUS QUESTION

In what order should you evaluate a math expression?

The map breaks this topic into its core concepts, connected by labeled relationships. Each link is written so it can be read as a complete statement — not just an unlabeled line between boxes.

Concepts and relationships

  • Order of Operations (PEMDAS) do first Parentheses.
  • Parentheses then Exponents.
  • Exponents then Multiplication.
  • Multiplication with Division.
  • Exponents before Addition.
  • Addition with Subtraction.

How to read this map

Follow the order from parentheses down to addition and subtraction, noting that multiplication/division and addition/subtraction are done left to right.

Learning objectives

  • Recall the PEMDAS order.
  • Explain why order matters.
  • Handle multiplication and division together.
  • Evaluate a multi-step expression.
Review standard: The order reflects standard mathematics curricula. Sources: Standard secondary-school mathematics curricula.