Order of operations with money
When a money sum has more than one operation, we do × and ÷ first, then + and −, working from left to right. This keeps everyone's answer the same.
Key idea / 要点
Do multiply and divide before add and subtract.
Step by step
Worked example / 例题
RM50 − RM6 × 3
Multiply first: RM6 × 3 = RM18
Then subtract: RM50 − RM18 = RM32
Another one: a pen costs RM2. Ali buys 4 pens and one ruler for RM3. Total = RM2 × 4 + RM3 = RM8 + RM3 = RM11.
Remember / 记住
- Multiply and divide come before add and subtract.
- Line up the RM in your answer.
- Check by working through the steps again.