Solve the series... 50 + 20% of 50 = ?

Appeared in: AIIMS CRE 2025

Explanation

The expression requires solving '20% of 50' first, according to the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS), where 'of' implies multiplication.
To calculate 20% of 50, convert the percentage to a decimal (20% = 0.20).
Multiply the decimal by the number: 0.20 × 50 = 10.
Finally, add this result to the initial number: 50 + 10 = 60.

Option A: This result (100) is obtained by incorrectly adding 50 to itself (50 + 50), instead of adding 20% of 50.
Option B: This is a calculation error. It does not correspond to a common misinterpretation of the percentage calculation.
Option C: This is a calculation error. It does not align with a logical misstep in solving the given expression.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Percentage Calculation and Order of Operations as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Basic numeracy is a fundamental skill for nurses, essential for accurate medication dosage calculations, IV drip rate adjustments, and interpreting patient data.
Errors in calculation can have severe patient safety consequences, making proficiency in concepts like percentages critical.
What if the question was '50 mg is increased by 20%'? The new dose would be 50 mg + (0.20 × 50 mg) = 50 mg + 10 mg = 60 mg. This demonstrates a direct application in clinical practice.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the mathematical operations involved in the expression: addition (+) and a percentage ('% of').
Recall the order of operations (often remembered by the acronym PEMDAS/BODMAS). Operations like multiplication ('of' is a form of multiplication) must be performed before addition.
Step 1: Calculate the percentage part. Convert '20%' to a decimal (0.20) or a fraction (20/100).
Step 2: Multiply this value by 50 to find '20% of 50'.
Step 3: Add the result from Step 2 to the initial number, 50.
Step 4: Compare your final answer with the given options to select the correct one.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full AIIMS CRE 2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.