If A means +, P means x, # means - and @ means /, what will come in place of question mark (?) in the following equation?

6#1P5A8@2#3P2 = ?

1. A

   8

2. B

   12

3. C

   16

4. D

   -1

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

• The first step is to replace each symbol in the equation with its designated mathematical operator: # becomes -, P becomes ×, A becomes +, and @ becomes ÷.
• The resulting expression is 6 - 1 × 5 + 8 ÷ 2 - 3 × 2.
• According to the BODMAS rule, division and multiplication are performed before addition and subtraction.
• Calculations are: 8 ÷ 2 = 4, 1 × 5 = 5, and 3 × 2 = 6.
• The expression simplifies to 6 - 5 + 4 - 6.
• Solving from left to right: (6 - 5) + 4 - 6 = 1 + 4 - 6 = 5 - 6 = -1.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option A: This result is obtained if the order of operations is not followed correctly. For example, performing operations sequentially from left to right without prioritizing division and multiplication.
• Option B: This is an incorrect calculation that arises from not adhering to the BODMAS rule. It may involve incorrect grouping or order of addition/subtraction and multiplication/division.
• Option C: This incorrect value is likely the result of both incorrect substitution and failure to follow the BODMAS order of operations.

Related Visual

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Mathematical Reasoning and Order of Operations (BODMAS) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• While this is a general intelligence question, the principle of following a strict order of operations is directly analogous to clinical practice. Nurses must follow protocols and procedures in a specific sequence to ensure patient safety, such as in medication administration or operating medical equipment.
• Accurate calculation is a critical nursing skill, especially for drug dosage calculations. A simple error in calculation, much like an error in the BODMAS sequence, can have serious consequences for patient health.
• What if? If a nurse were to misinterpret a medication order and administer doses in the wrong sequence or at incorrect intervals, it could lead to sub-therapeutic effects or toxicity, highlighting the importance of precision and order.

How to Approach the Question

• First, carefully read the question to identify the symbols and their corresponding mathematical operations.
• Systematically substitute each symbol in the given equation with its assigned operator.
• Recall the BODMAS/PEMDAS rule for the correct order of operations: Brackets/Parentheses, Orders/Exponents, Division and Multiplication (from left to right), and Addition and Subtraction (from left to right).
• Scan the new equation and perform all division and multiplication operations first.
• Once the higher-priority operations are complete, perform all addition and subtraction operations, moving from left to right.
• The final result is the answer. Compare it with the given options to select the correct one.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Mathematical Reasoning and Order of Operations (BODMAS)
• Stem keywords: Mathematical equation, Symbol substitution, BODMAS
• Lead-in keywords: what will come in place of question mark
• Negative lead-in flag: false

Question ID

QgxETfY4oyKBUQ2uElkNEe

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