Answer Is NOT 40? Math Puzzle Explained

Did you get it right?

This arithmetic puzzle asks: 90 – 5(7 + 9) = ? The trick is solving the parentheses and multiplication first.

The Answer

The correct answer is: 10.

Here is why

  • 7 + 9 = 16
  • 5 x 16 = 80
  • 90 – 80 = 10

Why people miss it

Many people rush through the subtraction. Parentheses and multiplication must come first.

What answer did you get before checking?