OPERATIONS

BIDMAS

Learn the reliable method for bidmas, then apply it to 11+ exam-style questions.

1 · WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The idea

BIDMAS fixes the order in which mixed operations are evaluated.

Picture itLine up the operation one step at a time
2 · THE METHOD

Follow these steps

  1. Calculate brackets and indices first.
  2. Complete multiplication and division from left to right.
  3. Complete addition and subtraction from left to right.
3 · WORKED EXAMPLES

See the method in action

Example 1

Calculate 6 + 8 × 3 - 2.

  1. Multiplication comes first: 8 × 3 = 24; then 6 + 24 - 2 = 28.
Answer: 28
Example 2

Evaluate 11 + 9 × 3 − 3.

  1. Multiply first: 9 × 3 = 27; then 11 + 27 − 3 = 35.
  2. Simplify each required part before combining the results.
Answer: 35
4 · ELEVENSPRINT TIP

A useful shortcut

Complete addition and subtraction from left to right.

5 · COMMON MISTAKES

Watch out for these

6 · TRY IT YOURSELF

Three fresh questions

Ready to check the method? You will get three fresh, validated questions.