According to the order of operations, expressions inside parentheses are evaluated first. For the given expression, this means evaluating the expression inside the square brackets completely before dividing.
[28-(16+3)]Ă·3
Notice also that even within this parenthetical expression, we must obey the order of operations.
28-(16+3)
For this, we must remember to evaluate the addition inside the parentheses first and finally the subtraction between 28 and the sum.
Operation
Before Simplification
After Simplification
Add terms
[28-( 16 + 3)]Ă·3
[28- 19]Ă·3
Subtract term
[ 28- 19]Ă·3
9Ă·3
Calculate quotient
9Ă· 3
3
The expression equals 3.
Alternative Solution
Using a Calculator
We can also evaluate this expression using a calculator. To do so, type it as shown below.
