Only Geniuses Can Solve This Math Puzzle in 10 Seconds: Can You?

Are you ready to put your mental math skills to the test?

A deceptively simple equation has been making the rounds online, challenging people to find the correct answer in just 10 seconds. At first glance, it might look like a breeze, but there’s a catch: solving it correctly requires strict adherence to the rules of mathematics.

Before you guess, take a look at the equation:

7 × 7 – 7 ÷ 7 + 7 = ?

Think you’ve got it? Before you lock in your answer, let’s review the golden rule that holds this puzzle together: the order of operations.

The Rule: PEMDAS

In mathematics, we follow a specific sequence to solve equations, commonly remembered by the acronym PEMDAS:

Parentheses

Exponents

Multiplication

Division

Addition

Subtraction

The key to this puzzle is remembering that multiplication and division must be handled before addition and subtraction. Furthermore, when you have multiple operations of the same tier (like multiplication and division, or addition and subtraction), you must solve them strictly from left to right.