How to Apply order of operations in algebra

In algebra, "order of operations" essentially means solving first for exponents or roots, then multiplication, division, addition and subtraction. The steps for the order of operations also require attention to mathematical grouping symbols, such as parentheses and brackets. From Ramanujan to calculus co-creator Gottfried Leibniz, many of the world's best and brightest mathematical minds have belonged to autodidacts. And, thanks to the Internet, it's easier than ever to follow in their footsteps (or just finish your homework or study for that next big test).