Mathematics consists of many symbols, operators and mathematical expressions. It is an abbreviated form of the spoken language. As such, usage of the mathematical operators have to be suitably carried out to reflect its real meaning. In this article, the usage of the mathematical operator "()" is discussed. Why is this operator so unique as to warrant attention?

Basically, this operator has its equivalence in the text-based language (example, English) in term of symbol but not in usage. For mathematics, the usage of this "parentheses" is primarily to isolate group of mathematical variables. It is to present a clearer picture of the mathematical expression which can be rather long at times. It also serves to simplify calculation or computation.

In the text-based language structure, the individual parenthesis can be replaced by comma if necessary. But for mathematics, the parentheses cannot be replaced by any other operators or symbols upon opening up the grouping. Mistake is therefore commonly made at this stage of group opening where the sign of the grouping is not taken care of. The end result of the computation will therefore be incorrect as a consequence of the wrong sign taken.

Example: 7 - (2 + 4) will give an answer of 7 - 6 = 1 if computed correctly. If wrongly done without care for sign in front of the first parenthesis, the computation will be 7 - 2 + 4 which gives a wrong result of 9!

How therefore can we resolve this type of careless error? The answer is simply to do more practices(of course with understanding). This will instill in the mathematics learner the habit to correctly remove the mathematical operator "parentheses" without making mistakes. In conclusion,though the mathematical operator seems simple, it serves importance to the process of calculation and must be taken care of.

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