This short math puzzle looks almost too easy, which is exactly why it catches people out. The key is to remember the order of operations. Multiplication must be completed before addition, even when the numbers are small and the equation seems obvious at first glance.
Start with 1 × 0, which equals 0. The expression then becomes 1 + 0 + 1. Add from left to right and you get 2. So the correct answer is 2.
A common mistake is to add the first two numbers before doing the multiplication, but that changes the intended calculation. These simple-looking equations are a good reminder that the same rules apply no matter how easy the numbers appear.
If you answered 2 immediately, you handled the order of operations correctly.
