Step-by-Step PEMDAS

This order of operations worksheet supports students in evaluating three-step expressions by requiring each PEMDAS step to be shown explicitly. Learners break down every problem into clear, sequential lines-first addressing parentheses, then multiplication or division, and finally addition or subtraction-building accuracy and conceptual understanding through structured work.

Instructional Objectives

• Skill Focus (Grades 5-7): Evaluate three-step numerical expressions by applying the order of operations one step at a time.
• Conceptual Understanding (Grades 5-7): Develop clarity around why operations must be completed in a specific sequence.
• Algebraic Reasoning (Grades 6-7): Analyze expressions and communicate mathematical thinking through written intermediate steps.
• Curriculum Alignment (Grades 5-7): Supports expression evaluation, problem-solving with clear work, operational fluency, and mathematical practice standards focused on reasoning and justification.

Requiring students to write each intermediate step helps teachers pinpoint where misunderstandings occur while giving learners a reliable framework for success. This explicit structure is especially helpful for students transitioning from single-step computation to more advanced expression evaluation.

Learning Benefits

• Reinforces disciplined, step-by-step use of PEMDAS
• Supports struggling learners with clear visual structure
• Encourages precise notation and mathematical communication
• Effective for guided instruction, intervention, or skill building

This printable worksheet provides structured, accessible practice that helps students confidently master three-step expressions while developing strong habits for showing work and explaining mathematical reasoning.

This worksheet is part of our 3-Step Order of Operations Worksheets collection.