The Math Challenge That Tricks Millions

Look closely at this viral math puzzle:

At first glance, it looks simple. But right at the top of the page, there’s a clear warning: “Answer is NOT 42.”

Why do so many people arrive at 42, and how do you find the actual answer?

The Common Trap: Left-to-Right Math

When solving purely in the order the numbers appear, here is what happens:

1. $40 \div 4 = 10$

2. $10 + 4 = 14$

3. $14 \times 3 =$ $\mathbf{42}$

While reading left-to-right feels natural, doing so violates the fundamental rules of arithmetic.

The Rule: Order of Operations (PEMDAS / BODMAS)

Mathematical operations follow a strict hierarchy to ensure a single, verifiable outcome:

1. Parentheses / Brackets

2. Exponents / Orders

3. Multiplication and Division (evaluated left-to-right)

4. Addition and Subtraction (evaluated left-to-right)

The Correct Solution

Applying the proper order of operations to $40 \div 4 + 4 \times 3$:

1. Handle Division and Multiplication first (left-to-right):

   • $40 \div 4 = 10$

   • $4 \times 3 = 12$

2. Combine with Addition:

   • $10 + 12 = \mathbf{22}$

Final Answer

The correct number to replace the question mark is 22. Don’t let left-to-right habit trick you—always trust the order of operations!