GED Math Practice Test

What should be done first when solving a math equation with parentheses?

1. Divide all numbers

2. Multiply all numbers

3. Perform the operations inside the parentheses

4. Subtract all numbers

The correct answer is: Perform the operations inside the parentheses

The correct approach when solving a mathematical equation that includes parentheses is to perform the operations inside the parentheses first. This process is fundamental to the order of operations, which dictates the sequence in which different parts of a mathematical expression should be evaluated to ensure accurate results. By addressing the expressions within the parentheses, you simplify the equation and potentially make it easier to handle the rest of the calculation once those values are calculated. To clarify why this is the appropriate step: parentheses indicate that the operations contained within them should be prioritized and completed before any other operations, such as multiplication, division, addition, or subtraction, occur in the overall expression. This helps avoid confusion and ensures that the mathematical structure of the equation is maintained appropriately. The other choices involve operations that follow the order of operations, which specifies that any calculation inside parentheses must be completed before moving on to multiplication, division, addition, or subtraction. Ignoring this rule could lead to incorrect solutions. Therefore, performing operations within the parentheses first is essential for correctly solving the equation.