For the expression X = (A + B + 1.2) * (A + B - C), what is the correct left-to-right sequence of operations (operators only) considering parentheses and standard evaluation order?

Introduction / Context:
Operator sequencing questions assess understanding of evaluation order with parentheses. Parentheses force inner expressions first, left-to-right where operators have the same precedence (e.g., + and -). Multiplication of the two parenthesized results occurs next, followed by assignment.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Expression: X = (A + B + 1.2) * (A + B - C)
• Operators involved: +, -, , =
• Parentheses dictate sub-expression evaluation before multiplication and assignment.

Concept / Approach:
Within each parenthesized group, perform additions/subtractions left-to-right. After both parentheses are resolved to scalar results, multiply them, then assign to X.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
If you symbolically name sub-results as P = A + B + 1.2 and Q = A + B - C, then X = P * Q; sequence clearly contains two pluses for P, plus then minus for Q, then multiply, then assign.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• * + + + - =: Starts with multiplication before the parentheses are resolved.
• + + - * + =: Ends with '+' instead of '='; misorders multiplication and assignment.
• - + + + * =: Begins with '-' which does not match the first required operation.

Common Pitfalls:

• Ignoring that + and - have equal precedence but evaluate left-to-right within parentheses.
• Attempting multiplication before evaluating parenthetical sums/differences.

Final Answer:
+ + + - * =