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Order of operations reference

PEMDAS rules chart

Print a clear order-of-operations reference with grouping, powers, multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction. Worked examples explain equal precedence and left-to-right calculation.

Ready-made English PDF · fixed settings

Reference · LetterReference · A4
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Print the reference handout

Read the four levels in order. Within the multiplication/division level or addition/subtraction level, work from left to right.

Download the complete reference with its explanations and worked examples. This handout does not need a separate answer key.

US Letter

Reference handout

A4

Reference handout
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Keep the rules within reach

Print the English reference in Letter or A4, or choose another printed language below. The handout includes the explanation and examples together on one page.

Pair the reference with a focused worksheet. The important habit is identifying the next operation and explaining why it comes first.

Learning objective

What this activity builds

Use four precedence levels to decide which part of an expression to calculate next.

Worked example

Evaluate 18 ÷ 3 × 2.

18 ÷ 3 × 2 = 6 × 2 = 12.

Division and multiplication share a level. The division is farther left, so it comes first. The letters in PEMDAS do not require multiplication before division.

Teaching notes

Make the practice count

  • Keep multiplication and division on the same line when explaining the acronym.
  • Ask students to mark the next operation before calculating.
  • Compare expressions with and without parentheses to show how grouping changes the order.
  • Use this reference beside a short practice sheet, then ask learners to explain the rules without it.

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Customize the reference

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Worksheet settings

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Configured PDF · PEMDAS Rules · US Letter

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1 reference page
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Math SheetNameScoreTeacherDatePEMDAS RulesEvaluate grouping and powers first. Operations on the same level are completed from left to right.1PGroupingWork inside parentheses first.2EExponentsEvaluate powers before multiplication, division, addition, or subtraction.3MDMultiplication and divisionWork from left to right; multiplication does not automatically come before division.4ASAddition and subtractionWork from left to right; addition does not automatically come before subtraction.Example18 ÷ 3 × 2 + 4 = 6 × 2 + 4 = 16math-sheet.comPage 1 / 1

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