Step-by-Step Breakdown of 6 – 6 × 6
Let us apply the formal order of operations directly to the viral puzzle:
Step 1: Identify the Operations Present
The expression 6 – 6 × 6 contains two operations:
- Subtraction ($-$)
- Multiplication ($\times$)
Step 2: Determine Priority
According to PEMDAS / BODMAS rules, multiplication holds a higher precedence than subtraction. This means you must perform the multiplication step before performing any subtraction, regardless of the left-to-right reading order.
Mathematics
Step 3: Perform the Multiplication First
Isolate the multiplication part of the expression:
$$6 \times 6 = 36$$
Now, substitute $36$ back into the original expression in place of $6 \times 6$:
$$6 – 36$$
Step 4: Perform the Subtraction
Finally, subtract $36$ from $6$:
$$6 – 36 = -30$$
The mathematically correct answer to 6 – 6 × 6 is -30.
Why Do So Many People Get the Answer Wrong?
If the mathematical rule is so straightforward, why do these viral teasers generate thousands of incorrect comments online? Psychologists and educators point to three primary mental shortcuts that lead people astray.
