This quick math puzzle looks simple, but the multiplication by zero is where many people get caught.
The expression is:
5 + 1 × 0 + 4
To solve it correctly, follow the standard order of operations. Multiplication comes before addition.
Start with:
1 × 0 = 0
Now the expression becomes:
5 + 0 + 4
Then complete the remaining addition:
5 + 4 = 9
So the correct answer is:
9
A common mistake is to work from left to right and calculate 5 + 1 first. Others see the ×0 and assume the entire expression becomes zero. But only the 1 is being multiplied by zero.
That tiny detail is what makes this short equation surprisingly easy to misread.
Answer: 9.
Did you get 9 on your first try?
