Avoid Using a Calculator: Solve This Brain-Teaser Without Cheating
Can you solve this simple-looking math puzzle without a calculator? Challenge your brain, follow the steps carefully, and discover the surprising answer.
The Challenge
Sometimes the simplest equations trip people up — not because they’re hard, but because of how we overlook basic math rules.
Here’s the puzzle:
50 + 10 × 0 + 7 + 2 = ?
At first glance, you might want to reach for a calculator. But the trick is to think logically and follow the order of operations.
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Remember the order of operations
In math, the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) tells us to handle:
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Parentheses
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Exponents
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Multiplication & Division (left to right)
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Addition & Subtraction (left to right)
This means multiplication happens before addition.
Step 2: Multiply first
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10 × 0 = 0
Now the equation becomes:
50 + 0 + 7 + 2
Step 3: Add from left to right
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50 + 0 = 50
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50 + 7 = 57
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57 + 2 = 59
The Surprising Answer
✅ The solution is 59.
Many people overthink it, forgetting the multiplication comes first — a perfect reminder that math is about thinking, not just punching numbers.
Why This Trick Works
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It tests attention to detail
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Reinforces order of operations
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Shows that mental math is powerful and often faster than a calculator
Tips to Master Mental Math
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Break problems into small steps
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Always apply PEMDAS/BODMAS
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Practice with daily arithmetic puzzles
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Visualize numbers to simplify complex-looking equations
Real-Life Scenario
A teacher wrote 50 + 10 × 0 + 7 + 2 on the board. Half the class immediately grabbed calculators. The other half, who followed order of operations mentally, solved it in 5 seconds.
Lesson: Sometimes your brain is faster and smarter than any device.
Next time you see a tricky-looking equation, pause, think, and calculate mentally.
50 + 10 × 0 + 7 + 2 = 59 — simple, yet a great brain workout.
Stop reaching for a calculator and trust your brain — it works wonders.