Math puzzles are a fun and challenging way to test your logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Some problems look simple at first glance but can be deceptively tricky, sparking debates among math enthusiasts. Today, we have a classic math problem for you—let’s see if you can solve it!

The Problem

Take a look at this mathematical expression:

48 ÷ 8(14 − 8)

At first, it seems like a straightforward arithmetic problem, but don’t rush your answer! Many people make mistakes due to common miscalculations. Think carefully before solving it, and see if you can get the correct answer.

Common Mistakes People Make

Many math problems like this trip people up due to small but crucial details. Here are the most frequent mistakes:

1. Ignoring the Order of Operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS)

Some people calculate from left to right without following the correct sequence of operations. However, mathematics follows a strict order called PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)) or BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division and Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction).

2. Misinterpreting Implied Multiplication

When multiplication appears next to parentheses, it can cause confusion. In expressions like 8(6), the multiplication is implicit, and misgrouping the operations can lead to incorrect answers.

3. Misplacing Division and Multiplication Priority

Some people assume that division always comes before multiplication, but in reality, division and multiplication share the same priority level. They should be performed from left to right, rather than prioritizing division over multiplication.

Now, let’s go through the solution step by step and determine the correct answer.

Step-by-Step Solution

We begin with the original problem:

48 ÷ 8(14 − 8)

Step 1: Solve Inside the Parentheses

Following PEMDAS, we must first calculate inside the parentheses:

14 − 8 = 6

Now, the equation simplifies to:

48 ÷ 8(6)

Step 2: Understand the Implied Multiplication

This is where many people make mistakes. The expression 8(6) means 8 × 6. Some mistakenly believe that multiplication should be done before division, but according to PEMDAS/BODMAS, multiplication and division must be performed from left to right.

Thus, the equation now becomes:

48 ÷ 8 × 6

Step 3: Perform Division and Multiplication from Left to Right

Now, we solve the equation in the correct order:

48 ÷ 8 = 6

6 × 6 = 36

At this point, many people believe the answer is 36, but let’s double-check by considering the implied multiplication rule.

The Correct Way to Solve It

Taking another approach, we recognize that multiplication next to parentheses is directly tied to the parentheses themselves. That means the equation:

48 ÷ 8(6)

is actually equivalent to:

48 ÷ (8 × 6)

Since multiplication within the parentheses must be done first:

8 × 6 = 48

Now, the equation simplifies to:

48 ÷ 48 = 1

Thus, the correct answer is 1!

Final Thoughts: How Did You Do?

Did you get the right answer? If so, congratulations! You’ve demonstrated strong logical thinking and a solid understanding of math rules. If not, don’t worry—many people make the same mistake, but now you know how to solve problems like this correctly.

Now It’s Your Turn!

• Comment below with your answer before reading the solution!
• Share this puzzle with your friends and see if they can solve it correctly.
• Try more math puzzles to challenge your brain and improve your logical thinking skills.

Math requires attention to detail, and even small differences in notation can completely change the answer. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll spot tricky problems like this with ease!