If the order of two numbers in an operation does not affect the result, then the operation is said to be commutative.

Addition and multiplication are commutative.

6 + 3 = 3 + 6

(Both sides have a sum of 9.)

6 x 3 = 3 x 6

(Both sides have a product of 18.)

Subtraction and division are generally NOT commutative.

6 - 3 ≠ 3 - 6

(6 - 3 = 3, while 3 - 6 = -3.)

6 ÷ 3 ≠ 3 ÷ 6

(6 ÷ 3 = 2, while 3 ÷ 6 = 0.5.)