At first glance, this math puzzle looks like a walk in the park. Just a few 11s, a subtraction sign, multiplication, and an addition thrown in for fun. Easy, right? Well, not so fast. This deceptively simple equation has left many scratching their heads — and it’s all thanks to the order of operations.
Let’s break it down and see if you really have what it takes to solve it correctly. Spoiler alert: Most people get it wrong on their first try.
Take the Challenge Before You Scroll
Here’s your equation:
11 – 11 × 11 + 11 = ?
Go ahead — try it without a calculator. Use your mental math skills and see what answer you get. We’ll wait.
Got your answer? Now let’s talk about why most people stumble.
Why So Many Get It Wrong
The issue here isn’t about knowing how to multiply, subtract, or add. The problem is order of operations — the exact order in which you must solve parts of an equation. When faced with a mix of mathematical operators, your brain might be tempted to go from left to right. That’s natural.
But in math, we follow a very specific rule: PEMDAS (or BODMAS depending on your region).
- P/B: Parentheses/Brackets
- E/O: Exponents/Orders (i.e., powers and roots)
- MD: Multiplication and Division (left to right)
- AS: Addition and Subtraction (left to right)
So now, let’s walk through this step by step.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Equation
Here’s what we’re solving:
11 – 11 × 11 + 11
Step 1: Look for parentheses.
There are none.
Step 2: Look for exponents.
None again.
Step 3: Multiplication and Division.
Yes! We have multiplication: 11 × 11.
So we solve that part first:
11 × 11 = 121
Now replace that part in the equation:
11 – 121 + 11
Step 4: Addition and Subtraction (left to right).
First, do the subtraction:
11 – 121 = -110
Then, do the addition:
-110 + 11 = -99
Final Answer: -99
Video : Albert Einstein maths challenging question ❓
Did you get that right? If so, you’re part of the rare few who actually slowed down to apply the rules of arithmetic instead of racing through it. If not, you’re not alone — this puzzle catches most people off guard.
Common Missteps and Why They Happen
Let’s talk about the mistakes people often make:
- Solving left to right without considering the order of operations.
This leads many to wrongly calculate:
(11 – 11 = 0) → (0 × 11 = 0) → (0 + 11 = 11)
But that’s totally incorrect.
- Assuming equal operations carry equal weight.
Many forget that multiplication has higher priority than addition and subtraction. - Lack of focus.
The repeated numbers trick the brain into treating the problem like it’s symmetrical or repetitive — but it’s not.
Why These Challenges Matter
These types of puzzles are more than just time-killers. They’re cognitive workouts. They test your:
- Attention to detail
- Logical thinking
- Math recall
- Patience under pressure
They also reveal how much we rely on patterns and habits instead of precision.
Want to Solve It Faster Next Time?
Here are three quick tips to beat tricky equations:
- Always scan the entire equation before diving in.
Don’t rush the first step. You might miss something important like a multiplication that overrides your subtraction. - Underline or mentally highlight the high-priority operations.
Spot the multiplication or division first. - Recheck your work.
Yes, just like your teacher told you. Walk through it slowly if your gut says something’s off.
Video : Math Riddles That Are Easier Than They Seem
Challenge a Friend!
Still feel like a math genius? Share this with your friends or post it on your favorite social media channel. Ask your followers: “Can you solve this without cheating?”
You’ll be surprised how many confident people get it wrong — and how much fun it is watching everyone defend their answer.
Conclusion: The Beauty of Brain Twisters
Simple-looking puzzles like 11 – 11 × 11 + 11 = ? are perfect examples of how powerful (and sneaky) the order of operations can be. It’s not just about numbers — it’s about discipline, logic, and slowing down to think clearly.
And in a world where we’re all moving fast, isn’t that a good reminder?
So the next time you see a “simple” math challenge, don’t rush it. The smarter play is to pause, think, and conquer it step by step.
