Explain how to use mental math to simplify the expression.

Question

a.) 8 * 3 * 2

b.) 8 * 2 + 3

c.) 5 + 8 + 3

d.) 10 * 3 -4

I have to explain the process.

Example: Using the associative property of multiplication I can group 8*(3*2) so I get 8*6. Then I multiply 8*6 which is 48.

Answer 1

You did a good job with a. If there are no parentheses, multiply first before adding or subtracting.