Can You Solve This Viral Math Puzzle? (Hint: It’s Not as Simple as It Looks)

Understanding the Order of Operations

Mathematics follows a specific sequence of steps known as the order of operations. This ensures that everyone solving the same equation arrives at the same answer.

A common way to remember this rule is:

PEMDAS

• Parentheses
• Exponents
• Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
• Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)

In this puzzle, there are no parentheses or exponents. That means multiplication must be completed before addition and subtraction.

Solving the Equation Correctly

Let’s examine the equation:

50 + 50 − 25 × 0 + 2 + 2

Step 1: Perform the Multiplication

The multiplication portion is:

25 × 0 = 0

Substituting that result back into the equation gives:

50 + 50 − 0 + 2 + 2

Step 2: Complete Addition and Subtraction

Now work from left to right:

• 50 + 50 = 100
• 100 − 0 = 100
• 100 + 2 = 102
• 102 + 2 = 104

Final Answer

104

Common Mistakes People Make

Many incorrect answers come from skipping the multiplication step and immediately performing the operations from left to right.

Others mistakenly believe that the presence of zero somehow causes the entire expression to become zero. While multiplying a number by zero does produce zero, that rule applies only to the multiplication portion of the equation.

The rest of the expression remains unchanged.

Why Viral Math Puzzles Become Popular

These puzzles spread quickly because they reveal how easily people can overlook basic mathematical principles when working quickly.

They also create lively discussions. Different people arrive at different answers, compare their reasoning, and revisit concepts they may not have used since school.

In many cases, the puzzle itself is less important than the conversation it creates.

The Takeaway

The equation:

50 + 50 − 25 × 0 + 2 + 2

has a correct answer of:

104

The key is remembering that multiplication takes priority over addition and subtraction. Once you apply the order of operations correctly, the solution becomes simple.

The next time you encounter a viral math puzzle online, slow down and check the order of operations before choosing your answer. A few extra seconds can make all the difference.