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Illustration of Equations Requiring BODMAS, BIDMAS, PEMDAS
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Level 3-4 Algebra - BODMAS, BIDMAS, PEMDAS

Learn how BODMAS (also called BIDMAS or PEMDAS) orders operations. Use brackets carefully, follow indices, and keep calculations tidy—skills that make KS3 algebra faster, clearer, and mistake-free.

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Fascinating Fact:

In real life, builders use BODMAS when calculating material costs, because forgetting brackets can change prices dramatically.

In KS3 Maths, you use an agreed order of operations to keep calculations consistent: brackets first, then indices, followed by multiplication/division, and finally addition/subtraction. This rule prevents ambiguity in algebra and real-world problem solving.

  • BODMAS / BIDMAS / PEMDAS: A rule that sets the order to do calculations so everyone gets the same answer.
  • Indices (Orders): Powers such as or ; evaluate these immediately after brackets.
  • Brackets: Symbols like ( ) that group parts of a calculation to be worked out first.
What does BODMAS/BIDMAS mean in KS3 maths?

BODMAS/BIDMAS states the order for calculations: Brackets, Orders (indices), Division and Multiplication, then Addition and Subtraction. Everyone follows it to avoid conflicting answers.

Is BODMAS the same as PEMDAS?

Yes. PEMDAS is the US version: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiply/Divide, Add/Subtract. It matches BODMAS; only the wording differs, not the order.

How do I apply BODMAS in algebra problems?

Work inside brackets first, handle indices, then multiply or divide from left to right, and finally add or subtract from left to right, keeping terms tidy.

1 .
What is the value of 3x2 when x = 2?
3
6
9
12
3 x (2 x 2)
2 .
What does the O stand for in BODMAS?
Odd numbers
Organise
Order
Onion
Orders are squares, cubes or any other powers
3 .
What is the correct sequence for mathematical operations?
Addition, Brackets, Division, Order, Multiplication, Subtraction
Brackets, Division, Addition, Order, Multiplication, Subtraction
Brackets, Order, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction
Subtraction, Addition, Multiplication, Division, Order, Brackets
They don't call it BODMAS for nothing!
4 .
What is the value of 2 + 3 x 5?
10
15
17
25
Work out the multiplication sign BEFORE the addition sign
5 .
What is the value of 2a3 - a, when a = 4?
118
120
122
124
(2 x 64) - 4
6 .
If x = 5, which of these calculations is correct?
6 + x + 7 - 3 + x - 2 = 24
6x + 7 - (3x - 2) = 24
(6x + 7) (3x - 2) = 24
6x + 7 - 3x - 2 = 24
30 + 7 - 13
7 .
What is the value of 2 x 3 + 5?
10
11
15
16
Work out the multiplication sign BEFORE the addition sign
8 .
What is the value of (3x)2 when x = 2?
6
12
36
48
(3 x 2)(3 x 2)
9 .
What is the value of (3 + a)(4 + a) when a = 4?
56
65
86
68
7 x 8
10 .
What is the value of x3 / (4y - 7), when x = 5 and y = 8?
3
4
5
6
125 / 25
You can find more about this topic by visiting BBC Bitesize - BIDMAS

Author:  Frank Evans (Specialist 11 Plus Teacher and Tutor)

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