Curious

[Ishuda]

I have a problem:
35-14/2+64
Well, really no problem. Pick your acronym but basically, for this problem, division first then add/subtract left to right, so
35-14/2+64 = 35 - 7 + 64 = 28 + 64 = 92

But how about 35-14 divided by 2+64? It would appear to me that just maybe, because of the wording, that the operations given in mathematical symbols might should be done first and we would have
35-14 divided by 2+64 = 21 divided by 66 = 7/22

As mentioned in a post from which this came, totally different answers. You think there is any value to that perception?

 

[stapel]

I have a problem:
35-14/2+64
Well, really no problem. Pick your acronym but basically, for this problem, division first then add/subtract left to right, so
35-14/2+64 = 35 - 7 + 64 = 28 + 64 = 92

But how about 35-14 divided by 2+64?

As formatted, I'd call this "ambiguous". For greater clarity (if you're going to use words, rather than symbols), one often uses language such as "quantity 35 - 14, divided by quantity 2 + 64". The "quantity" tag suggests grouping, so that it is generally (in my experience) taking to mean (35 - 14) divided by (2 + 64). If you wish to preserve the meaning intended in the original expression, try something like "35, less quantity 14 divided by 2, plus 64".

 

[Ishuda]

As formatted, I'd call this "ambiguous". ...

I would tend to agree since I don't think I would fault anyone for answering the question as a
35-(14/2)+64
question or as a
(35-14)/(2+64)
question and I do agree that it would be much much better to used the 'written' grouping symbols such as commas and add the words quantity for clarity.

However, just as a matter of actuals (rather than theoreticals), I think I would interpret "35-14 divided by 2+64" as the latter.