The BODMAS in life
This explainer by Seetha Rama Raju Sanapala simplifies the BODMAS rule, illustrating how the order of operations ensures consistency in mathematical calculations. Drawing a thoughtful parallel, he shows how the same principle applies to life, exams, and success.
By Seetha Rama Raju Sanapala
Let’s consider an example of the following arithmetic calculation.
Expression: 2 + 3 × 4 – 1
Here are two different ways to evaluate this expression:
First one:
1. 2 + 3 = 5
2. 5 × 4 = 20
3. 20 – 1 = 19
Second one:
1. Multiply 3 and 4: 3 × 4 = 12
2. Add 2 and 12: 2 + 12 = 14
3. Subtract 1: 14 – 1 = 13
Which one is correct?
Frankly there is nothing wrong with any calculation.
But they are giving different answers. Depending on the order in which we do the operations.
To see that we all will get only one answer, all of us have to agree upon the order of operations we do. And this is called the BODMAS. There is nothing sacrosanct about BODMAS. It is just a convention we follow so that the calculations are done by everyone in the same way and we all get the same answer or result.
Just like going on the right side or the left side of the road. In India we travel on the left side of the road. In some other countries they travel on the right side of the road. It is simply a convention followed in the respective countries so that the traffic does not result in logjams or accidents.
The BODMAS rule is an acronym used to remember the correct order of operations for solving mathematical expressions.
Following it ensures consistency and accuracy in your calculations. The acronym stands for:
Brackets: Solve any expressions inside brackets first.
Orders (or “of”): Next, handle any powers, indices, or roots.
Division and Multiplication: Perform division and multiplication next, working from left to right.
Addition and Subtraction: Finally, carry out addition and subtraction, also working from left to right.
Example calculation
Here is a sample problem using all four arithmetic operations and the concept of “of”:
30−2 of (15+5)÷4
Brackets:
(15+5)=20
The expression becomes:
30−2 of 20÷4
Of (Multiplication): The word “of” indicates multiplication:
2×20=40
The expression becomes:
30−40÷4
Division: Perform the division:
40÷4=10
The expression becomes:
30−10
Subtraction: Complete the final subtraction:
30−10=20
The correct answer is 20.
Similarly, there is BODMAS in life. For example marks secured is the BODMAS in examinations written by candidates for jobs or admissions into colleges. We have to follow the examination evaluation rules so that we get maximum marks possible and get the admissions or jobs that we are trying for. I will write about BODMAS of life in general but I keep that for a later time due to space considerations and end this piece with a motivational octet from me.
Don’t Get Stuck!
When faced with a tough question, don’t freeze,
Take a breath, stay calm, and move with ease.
Don’t let one problem hold you back,
Keep moving forward, and attack!
Mark the question, come back later,
Maybe the answer will reveal itself clearer.
Focus on the ones you know so well,
And maximize your score, it’s time to compel!
