Question

using the order of operations, what should be done first when evaluating this expression?

\\(-\frac{1}{2} \div 2(9+3) - 4 - \frac{3}{4}(8)\\)

divide \\(-\frac{1}{2} \div 2\\).
add \\(9+3\\).
multiply \\(-\frac{3}{4}(8)\\).
subtract \\(3-4\\).

Explanation:

Identify the order of operations hierarchy

$$ \text{PEMDAS: Parentheses} ightarrow \text{Exponents} ightarrow \text{Multiplication/Division} ightarrow \text{Addition/Subtraction} $$

Locate the highest priority operation in the expression

$$ -\frac{1}{2} \div 2(9+3) - 4 - \frac{3}{4}(8) $$

$$ \text{Parentheses group: } (9+3) $$

Determine the first step

$$ \text{First operation: } \text{Add } 9+3 $$

Answer:

• Divide \(-\frac{1}{2} \div 2\).
• Add \(9+3\). (Correct answer)
• Multiply \(-\frac{3}{4}(8)\).
• Subtract \(3-4\).