Missing Operator
Missing Operator problems present an arithmetic expression with one operator missing (indicated by '?'). You must determine which operator (+, -, ×, ÷) makes the equation true. These problems test your ability to test multiple possibilities and understand operator effects on expression values.
What You'll Learn
Introduction to Missing Operator
Missing Operator problems present an arithmetic expression with one operator missing (indicated by '?'). You must determine which operator (+, -, ×, ÷) makes the equation true. These problems test your ability to test multiple possibilities and understand operator effects on expression values.
Prerequisites
How to Solve Missing Operator Problems
Step 1: Identify the position of the missing operator (between which numbers)
Step 2: Test each operator (+, -, ×, ÷) in that position
Step 3: For each operator, evaluate the entire expression using BODMAS
Step 4: Compare the result with the given right-hand side
Step 5: The operator that makes the equation true is the answer
Step 6: If multiple operators work, check if the problem expects a specific one
Step 7: Present the correct operator
Example Problem
Example: What operator should replace '?' to make 8 ? 4 × 2 = 16? Solution: Step 1: Expression: 8 ? 4 × 2 = 16 Step 2: Test +: 8 + 4 × 2 = 8 + 8 = 16 ✓ Step 3: Test -: 8 - 4 × 2 = 8 - 8 = 0 ✗ Step 4: Test ×: 8 × 4 × 2 = 64 ✗ Step 5: Test ÷: 8 ÷ 4 × 2 = 2 × 2 = 4 ✗ Step 6: Only + works Answer: +
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Write the expression with the operator placeholder
- Test operators in order: +, -, ×, ÷
- Use BODMAS correctly - multiplication and division before addition/subtraction
- For ÷, check if division yields an integer (or handle decimals)
- If multiple operators work, the problem may expect the first one or have additional constraints
- Sometimes the missing operator is between the first two numbers, sometimes between later numbers
Shortcut Methods to Solve Faster
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Practice Worksheets
Practice makes perfect! Work through these worksheets to master Missing Operator. Each worksheet contains 20 questions with detailed explanations. Start from Worksheet 1 and progress through increasing difficulty levels.
Exam Importance
Missing Operator is an important topic for various competitive exams. Here's how frequently it appears:
Ready to Master Missing Operator?
Start with Worksheet 1 and work your way up to expert level! Each worksheet includes: