Here’s a short arithmetic challenge that looks simple until the multiplication sign changes everything.
The puzzle
45 − 5 × 0 + 3 = ?
Before reaching for a calculator, remember the order of operations. Multiplication is handled before addition and subtraction, even when the multiplication involves zero.
The correct answer
The answer is 48.
First calculate 5 × 0 = 0. That leaves 45 − 0 + 3 = 48.
A common mistake is to read the whole expression from left to right. Taking just a second to handle the multiplication first makes the result straightforward.
Did you get it on the first try? Challenge a friend with the same expression.
