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How to Solve Math Problems in Parentheses

If you have a math problem with parentheses, you need to follow the order of operations to properly solve it. The order of operations are parentheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition and then subtraction. If you do not follow this order, you will arrive at the wrong answer. You need to start with what's inside the parentheses, then follow the order of operations inside the parentheses until you get through all the order of operations. Once done, you need to perform the order outside the parentheses.

Instructions

    • 1

      Write the amount in the parentheses on a new line. For example, assume your equation is 5 + (4*3+2^2). Write out 4*3 + 2^2.

    • 2

      Solve any exponents first. In the example, the exponent is 2^2, which is two times two or 4. So now your equation is 4*3 + 4.

    • 3

      Solve multiplication and division next. In the example, 4 times 3 equals 12, so your equation is 12 + 4.

    • 4

      Solve any addition and subtraction. In the example, 12 + 4 equals 16.

    • 5

      Substitute solved parentheses part back into your equation. In the example, 5 + (4*3+2^2) becomes 5 + 16.

    • 6

      Solve your equation using the same process starting with any other parentheses, then exponents, then multiplication and division and finally any addition or subtraction. In the example, 5 + 16 equals 21.

K-12 Basics
K-12 Basics
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