Mathematical puzzles like the one you see above have been circulating on social media, challenging people to test their skills. The puzzle seems simple enough: 2 + 2 × 2, but the key to getting the right answer lies in understanding a basic principle in mathematics called the order of operations.

When looking at this equation, it may seem tempting to solve it left to right, which would give you:

2 + 2 = 4, and 4 × 2 = 8.

However, if you did that, you’d be wrong! Why? Because, according to the order of operations, multiplication comes before addition. The rule we need to follow here is known as PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)).

So let’s break it down the correct way:

1. Start with the multiplication:
   2 × 2 = 4
2. Then, move to the addition:
   2 + 4 = 6

The correct answer is 6!

Why is This Puzzle Popular?

Puzzles like these are not just about solving an equation; they engage us because they test our critical thinking. Many people rush to solve them and end up making simple errors, often because they overlook key rules, like the order of operations. It’s these small mistakes that make this challenge fun and insightful.

These kinds of challenges encourage us to think carefully before jumping to conclusions. They show us how easy it is to misinterpret problems that seem straightforward, reminding us that even in the digital age, where answers are often a quick search away, critical thinking remains an essential skill.

What Makes You a “Genius”?

The puzzle invites you to test your mental acuity, but you don’t need to be a genius to solve it. What’s important is understanding the basic principles of math. The label of “genius” is more about how quickly you can apply those principles than about any inherent brilliance.

So, next time you come across a puzzle like this, slow down, think it through, and remember the order of operations! Maybe then, you’ll see why this problem stumps so many people while giving those who solve it a feeling of pride.