Understanding the order of operations is really important when you work with algebra. It helps everyone solve math problems in the same way. You can remember the order of operations with the acronym PEMDAS, which stands for:

1. Parentheses
2. Exponents
3. Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
4. Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)

Let's look at an example to see how this works. Consider this math problem:

$$3 + 6 \times (5 + 4) - 2$$

Now, let's go through it step-by-step using PEMDAS:

1. Parentheses: First, we solve what's in the parentheses: $5 + 4 = 9$.

2. Multiplication: Next, we multiply: $6 \times 9 = 54$.

3. Addition and Subtraction: Finally, we work from left to right for the addition and subtraction: $3 + 54 - 2 = 55$.

If we didn't follow the order of operations and just went from left to right like $3 + 6 = 9$, we would have gotten the wrong answer.

Following the order of operations helps us get the right answer and makes math clearer. It also prevents mistakes when solving algebra problems. So, be sure to remember to use PEMDAS every time you tackle a math problem!