Can You Solve This Viral Math Puzzle? (Hint: It’s Not as Simple as It Looks)

To solve this equation correctly, you need to follow the order of operations, commonly known as PEMDAS or BODMAS. According to this rule, multiplication and division must always be completed before addition and subtraction.

Let’s solve it step by step.

Step 1: Perform the Multiplication

Focus on this part first:

25 × 0 = 0

Since any number multiplied by zero equals zero, the equation now becomes:

50 + 50 − 0 + 2 + 2

Step 2: Solve from Left to Right

Now complete the remaining operations:

• 50 + 50 = 100
• 100 − 0 = 100
• 100 + 2 = 102
• 102 + 2 = 104

The Final Answer

see continuation on next page

If you got 104, congratulations—you remembered the correct order of operations.

Why Does This Matter?

 Puzzles like this are entertaining, but they also remind us how easily our brains can fall into familiar habits. Even simple-looking equations can become tricky when we rush or forget basic  mathematical rules.

They’re a fun way to sharpen your thinking, test your attention to detail, and revisit concepts many of us learned years ago.

So, did you solve it correctly on your first attempt, or did the multiplication by zero catch you off guard? Share this  puzzle with your friends and see who gets the right answer without using a calculator.