- Result
- 20
How it works
Equal precedence still needs an order
Multiplication and division share precedence and proceed left to right: 24 / 3 * 2 gives 16. Writing 24 / (3 * 2) gives 4 because the parentheses make the whole product the divisor.
Making everyday arithmetic unambiguous
The basic calculator evaluates the expression you enter using its supported operators and order of operations. Use parentheses when a subtotal should be calculated first, such as a combined price before a division. Keep track of units outside the expression so that unlike quantities are not added accidentally. Rounding a displayed answer does not necessarily mean the original inputs were equally precise.
Calculate an expression: formula and assumptions
Evaluate parentheses and functions, then powers, multiplication/division, and addition/subtraction.
Use explicit multiplication, for example 2 * (3 + 4). ln is the natural logarithm and log is base 10. Angle units apply to trigonometric functions.
Worked example
Using the Calculate an expression example:
- Angle unit
- Degrees
- Expression
- sqrt(144) + 2^3
Evaluate parentheses and functions, then powers, multiplication/division, and addition/subtraction.
Example result
Result: 20
These are illustrative inputs. Change the values to explore a different scenario.
Formula references
References explain the underlying methods; they do not imply endorsement or individual professional review of Finflo.
Common questions
Are operations evaluated strictly from left to right?
No. Parentheses and functions are evaluated first, followed by powers, multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction.
How do parentheses change an arithmetic result?
They group operations to be performed first. For example, 2 * (3 + 4) gives 14, while 2 * 3 + 4 gives 10.
Prepared by Finflo. See our methodology and editorial policy.