Every now and then, a simple math problem takes the internet by storm. Not because it’s extremely difficult or advanced, but because it tests how well people remember the basic rules of arithmetic. One such equation that has been making the rounds lately is:

At first glance, it seems like an easy question you could solve in just a few seconds. Yet, surprisingly, many people come up with the wrong answer. That’s because while the math itself is straightforward, the trick lies in whether or not you apply the correct order of operations. This is where so many people trip up, forgetting the very rule that most of us learned back in grade school: PEMDAS.

For those who need a quick refresher, PEMDAS stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction. It’s the sequence you should follow whenever you’re solving a math problem. Multiplication and division always come before addition and subtraction—unless parentheses tell you otherwise. Once you keep that in mind, the riddle becomes a lot easier to solve.

So, let’s break it down step by step:

• Start with the equation: 50 + 50 – 25 × 0 + 2 + 2

• According to PEMDAS, multiplication comes first. That means we handle 25 × 0 right away, which equals 0.

• Now the equation looks like this: 50 + 50 – 0 + 2 + 2.

• From there, it’s just simple addition and subtraction from left to right. 50 + 50 = 100.

• Then, 100 – 0 = 100.

• Add the last two numbers: 100 + 2 + 2 = 104.

And there you have it—the correct answer is 104.

What’s interesting is how many people get tripped up and give different answers. Some forget about the multiplication step entirely and simply move left to right, ending up with something like 79 or another random number. Others second-guess themselves because the problem looks “too easy,” assuming there must be a trick. But really, the only “trick” here is sticking to the rules.

These kinds of math challenges aren’t just fun puzzles to pass the time—they also remind us how easy it is to overlook the basics when we rush. Social media has played a huge role in reviving these brain teasers, with people sharing them to test their friends or to spark debates in the comments section. It’s the same reason riddles, optical illusions, and word puzzles go viral: they tap into our natural curiosity and competitive spirit.

What makes this particular equation even more engaging is that it highlights how differently people think when faced with the same problem. Some take shortcuts, some apply logic immediately, and others simply guess. The discussions that follow are often more entertaining than the math itself, with friends arguing their answers and “math teachers” in the comments jumping in to set the record straight.

At the end of the day, this puzzle is a lighthearted reminder of the importance of slowing down and applying the fundamentals. Whether you’re a student brushing up on math skills, an adult revisiting concepts you haven’t thought about in years, or just someone who enjoys a good mental workout, these little challenges can be surprisingly satisfying.

So, if you ever come across a problem like 50 + 50 – 25 × 0 + 2 + 2, take a deep breath, remember PEMDAS, and trust the process. You might be surprised at how good it feels to get the answer right.

Final Answer: 104.