JS-026
JavaScript diagram about Operator Precedence: a visual example of Order of operator execution
Beginner3 min~3 min read#operators#precedence#math

Operator Precedence

Order of operator execution

Goal

Understand the order in which JavaScript evaluates operators.

Explanation

  • When an expression has several operators, JavaScript does not always go left to right — it follows precedence rules.
  • Multiplication and division have higher precedence than addition and subtraction.
  • Parentheses are always evaluated first.
  • The order of execution can completely change the result of an expression.
  • When in doubt, use parentheses to make the code clearer.

Analogy

Imagine a line at a store. Some customers have priority and go first. Some operators run before others in the same way.

Code

console.log(2 + 3 * 4);

console.log((2 + 3) * 4);

Result: 14 20

Common mistake

Beginners often expect JavaScript to always evaluate an expression left to right. In reality, it follows operator precedence rules.

Remember

  • ✦ Multiplication and division run first.
  • ✦ Parentheses have the highest precedence.
  • ✦ Operator order affects the result.

Quick Quiz

What does 2 + 3 * 4 return?

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