A seemingly straightforward math puzzle has taken the internet by storm, revealing itself to be much more challenging than it initially appears.

This mathematical conundrum was shared last Friday by an X user known as @BholanathDutta, and it looks like a simple equation involving just four numbers.

At first glance, the sequence evokes memories of algebra lessons: four numbers linked by various familiar symbols.

However, the puzzle’s straightforward appearance quickly fades, requiring unexpectedly intense mental effort once you begin to unravel it.

This brainteaser has sparked a whirlwind of activity online, with eager participants offering conflicting solutions as they vie to outwit each other and solve the mystery.

Do you have what it takes to beat the clock and outwit the numbers? See if you can solve it in 30 seconds! 

Here’s the equation: 19-7×4+5.

Your first clue lies in the symbols themselves: subtraction, multiplication and addition each play a crucial role in the solution.

A deceptively simple math problem has left the internet stumped. Can you solve it?

If spotting the symbols brings back memories of dreaded math class – and you can still flex those buried skills – you’re already halfway to cracking the code. 

Think you’ve got it figured out?

If so, congratulations! You’ve just proven your math mastery. If you’re still stuck, here’s a tip: pause, take a deep breath and recall which operation comes first in standard math rules.

One step in this equation takes priority over the others, and spoiler: it’s not the subtraction sign lurking between the first two numbers.

Still drawing a blank? Here’s your next clue: focus on the proper order of operations, not just left-to-right calculations. One specific symbol changes the whole game. 

If you’re still twiddling your thumbs struggling to recall that dusty chalkboard of rules, here’s a little lifesaver to wake the brain up: PEMDAS.

Ringing any bells? Could you solve it in 30 seconds flat? 

If you landed on -4, bravo! You’re correct, and your math teacher would be beaming. If not, don’t fret – revisiting those grade-school lessons is all it takes (we’ve all been there).

The correct answer is -4. To get there you need to ensure you follow PEMDAS

The post racked up dozens of comments, with internet sleuths seemingly split down the middle on the answer. While nearly half got it right, a surprising number were convinced the answer was 53.

The folks sticking with the number 53 made an understandable but critical error: they tackled the equation starting from the first number and ending with the last, similar to reading a book or solving equations with matching symbols.

With so many different symbols in play, failing to follow the order of operations – or PEMDAS for short – is a surefire way to miss the correct answer.

So, how’s this puzzle solved? Let’s unravel the five-letter term. It’ll show exactly which operation demands attention first.

Think of PEMDAS as your math GPS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition and Subtraction. Follow that exact order and you won’t get lost.

Since parentheses and exponents are missing here, the next move is simple: tackle the multiplication first.

Here’s where the classic math begins. With the familiar multiplication symbol sitting between 7 and 4, multiply them. That quick calculation should give you the number 28.

Now we’re left with a simpler equation: 19-28+5.

Don’t get ahead of yourself – PEMDAS still rules! With division missing, the final showdown is between addition and subtraction.

This is the tricky part: addition and subtraction share the same rank, so you tackle them left to right. The same goes for multiplication and division if they were the last ones standing.

Start from the left: 19-28 = -9. Add 5 to that and voilà – the final answer is -4.