Understanding the order of operations is very important when working with numbers in math. It tells us the right steps to follow when doing math problems.

Here’s an easy way to remember the order: Just think of the acronym PEMDAS.

• P for Parentheses
• E for Exponents
• M for Multiplication
• D for Division (both from left to right)
• A for Addition
• S for Subtraction (both from left to right)

Following this order helps us solve problems in a consistent way.

Let’s look at an example:
If we have the problem:
$8 + 2 \times (3 - 1)$:

1. First, solve the Parentheses:
   $3 - 1 = 2$.

2. Next, do the Multiplication:
   $2 \times 2 = 4$.

3. Finally, do the Addition:
   $8 + 4 = 12$.

If someone forgets the order and does it left to right like this:
$8 + 2 = 10$ and then $10 \times 2 = 20$, the answer would be wrong.

Why is this important?
This order helps us avoid mistakes and confusion, especially when the math gets complicated.

Also, what about negative numbers?
The order of operations works for negative numbers too. For example, in $-5 + 3 \times 4$:

1. First, do the Multiplication:
   $3 \times 4 = 12$.

2. Then, do the Addition:
   $-5 + 12 = 7$.

Following the order helps us handle both positive and negative numbers correctly.

In summary:
It’s really important to respect the order of operations in math. Doing so helps us perform calculations accurately and keeps everything clear and easy to understand.