Final answer:
The first step in evaluating the expression is to solve the multiplication inside the parentheses, which is (20 × 4). Following this, perform the remaining multiplications and then subtract the two results to get the final answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step when evaluating the expression (20 × 4) - 3 × 2 × 3 × 2 would be to solve (20 × 4), following the order of operations, which states that multiplication inside parentheses should be done before any other operations.
Here are the steps you would follow:
- Solve the expression inside the parentheses: (20 × 4).
- Continue with the remaining multiplications: 3 × 2 × 3 × 2.
- Subtract the result of the second multiplication from the result of the first multiplication.
Also, remember to always eliminate terms wherever possible to simplify the algebra, and check the answer to see if it is reasonable.