BODMAS
B = Brackets
O = Orders
DM = Division and Multiplication
AS = Addition and Subtraction
Using these rules ensures everyone reaches the same answer.
Why These Puzzles Go Viral
Math puzzles like this spread rapidly because they:
Challenge our assumptions.
Encourage people to defend their answers.
Create engagement through disagreement.
Reveal common misunderstandings about basic arithmetic.
A simple equation can generate thousands of comments because many people remember math rules differently—or forget them altogether.
The Verdict
Despite the viral debate, the correct solution is straightforward:
7 − 2(8 − 4)
7 − 2(4)
7 − 8
= -1
So the internet’s favorite math trap has a clear answer:
✅ The answer is NOT 6.
✅ The correct answer is -1.
What answer did you get before reading the explanation? Let us know in the comments!