This math puzzle says “Answer is not 300” and challenges you to solve 300 − 40 × 0 + 5 = ? Is that headline correct?
The answer is 305
Yes, the headline is correct. Standard order of operations tells us to complete multiplication first: 40 × 0 = 0.
The expression then becomes 300 − 0 + 5. Subtracting zero leaves 300, and adding five produces the correct answer: 305.
Why isn’t it 300?
Some people stop thinking after multiplying by zero. But multiplication by zero only affects the term containing that multiplication sign. The final + 5 remains and must still be included.
A quick way to remember
Complete multiplication before addition and subtraction, even when one factor is zero. Then read the full expression again so you don’t overlook a remaining number at the end.
Did you calculate 305 immediately, or did the headline make you second-guess yourself?
