At first glance, this simple equation looks like something straight out of an elementary school quiz. However, because our minds are used to reading quickly from left to right, it is surprisingly easy to make a small slip-up.
Take a moment, look at the equation below, and solve it in your head:
The Equation
10 + 10 × 0 + 10 = ?
Did you quickly arrive at 0, 10, or 20?
If you didn’t get 20 on your first pass, don’t worry. This expression is designed to test how naturally we follow standard arithmetic rules versus visual instincts.
How to Solve It Correctly
The key to finding the right solution lies in the fundamental rule of operations, often remembered as PEMDAS or BODMAS. Standard mathematics requires that multiplication and division take priority over addition and subtraction.
- Handle multiplication first: Before doing any adding, calculate the middle segment: 10 × 0 = 0.
- Simplify the expression: Replace that middle part with zero to get 10 + 0 + 10.
- Add left to right: Finish the calculation normally: 10 + 0 = 10, and 10 + 10 = 20.
The Final Answer
The correct answer is 20.
The trick works because when we glance at “× 0” in the middle, our brain naturally wants to apply that zero to the entire statement. It is a great little reminder of how quick visual habits can bypass basic rules if we aren’t paying close attention.
Did you get 20 right away, or did your brain try to jump straight to zero? Try sharing this simple test with friends to see how many follow the order of operations!
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