The truth is that 48/2(9+3) is not a good way to write a mathematical expression becuase it so easily can be interpreted different ways.
Because of the limits of the standard characters on the keyboard, a little extra effort needs to be made when writing expression on the computer to clarify when the intent is.

Originally Posted by Spider

Excellent answer. If the fraction had been written vertically with 48 over the viniculum (the dividing line) over the 2, it would be obvious whether the factor (9+3) were even with the viniculum multiplying the whole fraction, or in the denominator multiplying only the 2.

Never heard that word in my life. Damn show off!

I personally feel the equation is fair and straight forward. I don't see anything ambiguous about it and come to the answer of 288. I just simply followed the order of operations (parens, no exp, then fundamental left-to-right calcs). But what I think is interesting how this equation (no matter one's answer) triggers such fierce and facinaring debate on other boards.

Or maybe I'm wrong.

YouTube - ‪A response to 48 / 2(9+3)‬‏

I don't know whether I should be happy that Hitler agreed with me or I should dump my answer and just yell "2"!!