Mathematical operations are the actions we take with numbers – like adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing. The Order of Operations tells us which calculations to do first, second, and so on. Following this sequence is essential as completing operations in the wrong order will give you an incorrect answer. Students in late elementary can learn the correct order of operations with our free printable teaching resources. Download and print our free order of operations charts, worksheets, and learning centers for students to practice solving operations in order.
PEMDAS Order of Operations
PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction) is the mathematical order of operations that tells you which calculations to do first in a math problem
Order of Operations Charts
Once students have a solid understanding of operations, they can begin to learn the order of operations. In the US, this starts by learning the acronym, P.E.M.D.A.S., which represents the order of Parenthesis, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction. A recent updated version of PEMDAS is GEMDAS, with the G representing all groupings (parentheses, brackets, and braces). In the UK, you might see Order of Operations taught with BODMAS. Download and print our PDF Order of Operations charts below:
Order of Operations Anchor Chart
Free printable Order of Operations chart featuring PEMDAS. Download, print, and add to your student’s math notebook for a helpful student reference chart.
Order of Operations Example Chart
This chart provides students with a step-by-step visual guide to solving complex equations using the PEMDAS order of operations. Each level is color-coded for clarity.
PEMDAS CHART
(U.S. Version):
Parentheses
Exponents
Multiplication and Division (left to right)
Addition and Subtraction (left to right)
GEMDAS CHART
(Updated U.S. version):
Groupings (parentheses, brackets, braces, etc.)
Exponents
Multiplication and Division (left to right)
Addition and Subtraction (left to right)
BODMAS CHART
(U.K. Version):
Brackets
Orders (exponents/powers)
Division and Multiplication (left to right)
Addition and Subtraction (left to right)
PEMDAS Order of Operations Printables
Another helpful mnemonic tool to remember PEMDAS order is “Please, Excuse, My, Dear, Aunt, Sally.” Below you’ll find additional order of operations charts and printables to help late elementary and early middle school students tackle this concept.
Operations Charts
Free printable anchor charts for simple mathematical operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Download and print these colorful posters to provide a foundational understanding of mathematical operations.
What Is The Order Of Operations?
The order of operations is like a set of rules that tell us what to do first, second, third, and so on when we have a math problem with more than one math operation (like adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing).
- First, we do anything inside parentheses or brackets.
- Next, we work with exponents (which are like little powers).
- Then, we do multiplication and division, starting from the left and working our way to the right.
- Finally, we do addition and subtraction, starting from the left and working our way to the right.
The Definition of Order of Operations
The order of operations is a set of rules that dictate the sequence in which mathematical operations should be performed in a mathematical expression. This is important to ensure that we get the correct answer every time we solve a mathematical problem. This concept is often taught staring at the upper elementary level, however, does effect even the youngest of learners when multi-step problems are introduced.
How To Do Order Of Operations
The order of operations can be taught easily and in an engaging way if you follow these easy steps!
- Start with simple examples that involve only two operations and practice with your students. As students start to understand and can easily complete these simple tasks, continue to push their skills by adding another operation, larger numbers, or both!
- Use visuals! The PEMDAS chart listed above is an amazing resource. You can also draw charts on the board or on a poster. Explain to students how PEMDAS works and why it is important to follow the steps in the correct order.
- Use fun lingo! Catchy phrases that help students to remember (many times due to the humor they find in it) the acronym PEMDAS can (and should) be used with your students. There are many fun ones out there or you can create your own. One that is very popular is “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally.”
- Play games with your students. Bingo, War, etc… can be created easily to help students practice solving expressions using the order of operations.
- Provide your students with feedback. Your students will learn through trial and error. Make sure you are encouraging them to ask questions and discuss their thinking with their peers.
Following these steps will make teaching the order of operations fun and engaging for your students! If you’re looking for even more fun and engaging lessons and actives for your early learners, check out our Interactive Math Curriculum. Your students will LOVE the activities and you will love the mathematical concepts they are learning (without even knowing it)!
Comments (3)
I am working on order of operations now, and I can’t wait to use these charts with my struggling students.
When trying to open the Order of Operations Example Chart, it opens up to reveal the Order of Operations Chart to its left.
Thanks for letting us know, Celia! Here is the direct link: https://superstarworksheets.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/OrderofOperationsExampleChart.pdf