This quick math puzzle looks incredibly easy, but the multiplication by zero can make people second-guess their answer.

The expression is:

1 + 8 × 0 + 3

The key is to follow the standard order of operations. Multiplication must be completed before addition.

Start with:

8 × 0 = 0

Now substitute that result back into the expression:

1 + 0 + 3

Then complete the remaining addition:

1 + 3 = 4

So the correct answer is:

4

A common mistake is to calculate everything from left to right and add 1 + 8 first. Others see the ×0 and assume the entire equation becomes zero. However, only the 8 is being multiplied by zero.

These short equations are deceptively simple because one small detail can completely change the result.

Answer: 4.

Did you get it right on your first try?

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