This 'Simple' Maths Puzzle Is Leaving Brits Absolutely Stumped - Can You Solve It?

A seemingly innocent maths puzzle has taken the internet by storm, leaving a trail of baffled Brits in its wake and proving that some equations are far trickier than they first appear.

Shared widely across social media, the puzzle presents a simple challenge: What is the correct answer to 60 ÷ 5(7-5)? The glaringly obvious answer isn't the only one, and it's this very ambiguity that has sparked a furious online debate.

The Great British Maths Debate

The core of the confusion lies in the order of operations, a fundamental concept taught in schools across the UK. Most will remember the acronym BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division and Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction) or its cousin, PEMDAS.

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This is where the argument splits into two distinct camps:

The Case for Answer 6

One group fervently insists the answer is 6. Their working is as follows:

1. First, solve the brackets: (7 - 5) = 2. The equation becomes 60 ÷ 5(2).
2. Next, handle the multiplication and division from left to right: 60 ÷ 5 = 12.
3. Finally, 12 x 2 = 24.

For them, the solution is clear and unequivocal.

The Case for Answer 24

The other camp is equally convinced the answer is 24. Their logic is different:

1. Solve the brackets: (7 - 5) = 2.
2. However, they argue that the implied multiplication by the bracket (5(2)) takes priority. So, 5(2) = 10.
3. This leaves 60 ÷ 10, which equals 6.

This interpretation hinges on treating the juxtaposed multiplication as having a higher priority than the division symbol.

Why This Puzzle Is So Brilliantly Tricky

The puzzle is a masterclass in mathematical ambiguity. The lack of a clear multiplication symbol between the '5' and the bracket is its secret weapon. This creates a grey area in the strict rules of BODMAS/PEMDAS, where some believe implied multiplication should be prioritised.

This viral conundrum highlights a fascinating aspect of how we communicate maths. A slightly different notation—such as 60 ÷ 5 x (7-5) or using a fraction—would have made the problem unambiguous and ended the debate before it began.

So, whether you landed on 6 or 24, you're in good company. The puzzle has successfully divided the nation, proving that even the simplest equations can cause mass confusion and delight in equal measure.