Question

What is the first step in evaluating this expression?

15 + 20 ÷ (10 – 7) + 12

Answer 1

10-7 will be done first.

Explanation:

Answer 2

The first step to solve the expression is to solve () i.e. (10-7) will be solved first.

Explanation:

Any algebraic expression is solved as per BODMAS rule i.e. in the following sequential order (one after the other).

B - Bracket i.e. ()

O - Of

D - Division

M - Multiplication

A - Addition

S - Subtraction

So, as per BODMAS rule, the bracket i.e. () expression will be solved at first.

Solving the expression:

15 + 20 ÷ (10 – 7) + 12

`\Rightarrow` 15 + 20 ÷ 3 + 12

`\Rightarrow` 15 + 6.67 + 12

`\Rightarrow` 21.67 + 12

`\Rightarrow` 33.67

Hence, (10-7) will be evaluated first.