Algebraic logic example

Based on the rules of algebraic logic, operations are performed in the following order within a formula:

  • From innermost to outermost parentheses
  • From left to right within parentheses
  • Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction

Example:  

Consider this formula: Stud Count = Wall Length'/Stud Spacing"/12

If Wall Length' = 10 and Stud Spacing" = 16, this formula divides 10 by 16 first, and then divides the result by 12. This gives the wrong result, .052.

Rewrite the formula, adding parentheses: Stud Count = Wall Length'/(Stud Spacing"/12)

Now the formula divides the Stud Spacing" (16) by 12, and then divides the Wall Length' by the result. This gives the correct result, 7.5.