Here’s a quick math puzzle: 150 + 30 × 0 + 7 = ? The headline says the answer is not 150. Let’s work out why.
The answer is 157
The order of operations says multiplication happens before addition. Begin with 30 × 0 = 0. That turns the expression into 150 + 0 + 7, which equals 157.
Why isn’t it 150?
Multiplying 30 by zero removes that term, but it doesn’t remove the last seven. If you forget the final addition, you might stop at 150 and miss the correct answer.
How to avoid the trap
Always complete multiplication and division first. Then add and subtract the remaining values. This rule works even if one of the numbers is zero.
Did you get 157 before checking the explanation? Try the question with a friend and compare the steps you used.
