This deceptively simple equation has split the internet in two: 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2) = ? Is the result 1 or 16? At first glance, people leap to both answers—often without fully applying the order of operations. In this post, we’ll highlight the pitfalls that lead to the wrong solution, then guide you step by step to the correct result. Sharpen your pencils and your wits: if you’ve ever argued online about this puzzle, now’s the time to settle the score once and for all!
Everyone Is Arguing Over This Simple Math Equation
You’ve surely seen it circulating all over social media: 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2) = ?
Some people swear the answer is 1, while others insist it’s 16. Which side are you on? Before you peek at someone else’s solution, give it a try yourself—then keep reading to see who gets it right.
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Common Mistakes
Ignoring PEMDAS/BODMAS Order
Forgetting to handle parentheses first and then moving strictly left to right for multiplication and division leads to confusion.
Treating 2(2+2) as a Single Unit Only
Some view the “2(2+2)” as a grouped entity that must be divided into after the addition, rather than applying the division before multiplication.
Skipping the Left-to-Right Rule
Even when you know you must multiply and divide before adding, failing to perform them in the order they appear (left to right) can flip your result.
Step-by-Step Explanation
Evaluate Inside the Parentheses:
- 2+2=4
Rewrite the Expression:
- 8 : 2 x 4
Perform Division and Multiplication, Left to Right:
First, divide:
- 8÷2=4
Then, multiply:
- 4×4=16
So the correct answer—by the standard arithmetic order of operations—is 16.
Join the Debate
Did you land on 16, or were you tempted by 1 at first glance? Share your thought process in the comments below! And if you enjoy these deceptively tricky puzzles, explore more on our site—each one will sharpen your logical thinking and spark fun debates with friends.
