Study Notes
BIDMAS is a rule used to determine the order of operations in mathematical expressions involving more than one operation.
- Brackets — operations inside brackets are performed first. Example: In (2 + 3) x 4, calculate 2 + 3 first.
- Indices — powers or exponents are calculated after brackets. Example: In 3^2 + 4, calculate 3^2 first.
- Division and Multiplication — these operations are performed from left to right. Example: In 6 ÷ 2 x 3, perform 6 ÷ 2 first.
- Addition and Subtraction — these operations are performed last, from left to right. Example: In 5 + 2 - 3, perform 5 + 2 first.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Brackets: Perform operations inside brackets first.
- Indices: Calculate powers or exponents after brackets.
- Division and Multiplication: Perform these from left to right.
- Addition and Subtraction: Perform these last, from left to right.
Common Confusions
- Forgetting to perform operations inside brackets first.
- Mixing up the order of division and multiplication.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is the result of (3 + 2) x 4? Answer: 20
- Simplify 2^3 + 4 x 2. Answer: 16
- Calculate 8 ÷ 2 + 5. Answer: 9
What Examiners Usually Test
- Correct application of BIDMAS in complex expressions.
- Ability to simplify expressions using the correct order of operations.