What is the first step to evaluate this expression
To evaluate an expression, the first step is to simplify it by following the order of operations (also known as PEMDAS). The order of operations is as follows:
1. Parentheses: Simplify any expressions inside parentheses first.
2. Exponents: Evaluate any exponential expressions.
3. Multiplication and Division: Perform any multiplication and division from left to right.
4. Addition and Subtraction: Perform any addition and subtraction from left to right.
Once the expression is simplified according to the order of operations, you can proceed to evaluate it further.