This math puzzle is short, but the order of operations makes all the difference.
The expression is:
3 + 3 × 0 + 5
Multiplication comes before addition, so begin with:
3 × 0 = 0
Now the expression becomes:
3 + 0 + 5
Finish the remaining addition:
3 + 5 = 8
So the correct answer is 8.
One common mistake is to add the first two 3s before multiplying. Another is to see the zero and assume the entire expression becomes zero. Neither approach follows the standard order of operations. Only the second 3 is multiplied by zero.
Answer: 8.
These simple-looking equations are a good reminder that a tiny multiplication sign can completely change the result. Did you solve it correctly without a calculator?
