This math puzzle looks simple, but it is designed to catch anyone who rushes through the calculation.
The expression is:
2 + 8 × 0 + 7
The key is to remember the correct order of operations. Multiplication must be completed before addition.
Start with:
8 × 0 = 0
Now the expression becomes:
2 + 0 + 7
Then add the remaining numbers:
2 + 7 = 9
A common mistake is to work from left to right and add 2 + 8 before dealing with the multiplication. Another mistake is assuming that the zero makes the entire expression equal zero. It does not. The zero only affects the 8 because those two numbers are being multiplied together.
Answer: 9.
Did you get 9 on your first try, or did the ×0 make you second-guess yourself?
