1.1.3

BIDMAS

Test yourself

BIDMAS

‘BIDMAS’ tells you what order to do 'operations' in.

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How to answer

  • There are a set of rules that tell you how to work out calculations correctly.
  • You can use BIDMAS to help you remember the order in which you work out an answer.
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B for Brackets

  • Any calculation in brackets are done first.
  • Always start with the innermost set of brackets.
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I for Indices

  • Any indices (powers) should be done next.
    • E.g. squaring a number or taking the cube root.
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D for Division

  • If there is a division (÷), you do the division next.
  • There is no division (÷) in this example so you move onto the 'M'.
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M for Multiplication

  • The multiplication (×) in this example has already been done inside the bracket.
  • So you move onto the 'A'.
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A for Addition

  • Next, you complete any additions (+).
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S for Subtraction

  • Finally, you complete any subtractions (−).
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The answer

  • The answer is 4 + 32 − (4 × 3) = 1
  • The BIDMAS order of operations should always be followed.

Jump to other topics

1Number

1.1Using Numbers

1.2Fractions, Decimals & Percentages

1.3Powers & Roots

1.4Accuracy

2Algebra

2.1Introduction to Algebra

2.2Manipulating Algebra

2.3Proofs & Functions

2.4Straight Line Graphs

2.5Common Graphs

2.6Transformations & Tangents

2.7Properties of Graphs

2.8Solving Equations

2.9Inequalities

2.10Sequences

3Ratio

4Geometry

4.1Introduction to Geometry

4.2Triangles & Quadrilaterals

4.3Transformations

4.4Circle Basics

4.5Circle Theorems

4.6Measurements & Units

4.7Calculating Area

4.8Triangle Formulae

4.93D Shapes

4.10Vectors

5Probability

6Statistics

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