Question 1hardmultiple choice
Full question →- A
512
2**(3**2) = 2**9 = 512.
- B
256
Why wrong: Incorrect.
- C
64
Why wrong: That would be (2**3)**2 = 8**2 = 64.
- D
128
Why wrong: Incorrect.
Question 245 of 510
Quick Answer
The correct answer is 512. This result stems from the exponentiation operator’s right associativity in Python, meaning the expression `2 ** 3 ** 2` is evaluated as `2 ** (3 ** 2)` rather than `(2 ** 3) ** 2`. First, `3 ** 2` computes to 9, and then `2 ** 9` yields 512. On the Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer PCEP exam, this concept tests your understanding of operator precedence and associativity, often appearing as a common trap where students mistakenly evaluate left-to-right. A reliable memory tip is to think of exponentiation as building a tower from the top down: always calculate the rightmost exponent first, just like stacking powers upward.
PCEP Practice Question: Data Types, Variables, Basic I/O and Operators
This PCEP practice question tests your understanding of data types, variables, basic i/o and operators. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
What is the result of the expression: print(2 ** 3 ** 2) ?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
512
The expression `2 ** 3 ** 2` uses the exponentiation operator `**`, which in Python is right-associative. This means it is evaluated as `2 ** (3 ** 2)`, not `(2 ** 3) ** 2`. First, `3 ** 2` equals 9, then `2 ** 9` equals 512. Therefore, option A is correct.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
512
Why this is correct
2**(3**2) = 2**9 = 512.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
256
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect.
- ✗
64
Why it's wrong here
That would be (2**3)**2 = 8**2 = 64.
- ✗
128
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
The trap here is that many candidates assume exponentiation is left-associative like most other arithmetic operators, leading them to compute `(2 ** 3) ** 2 = 64` instead of the correct right-associative `2 ** (3 ** 2) = 512`.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
In Python, the exponentiation operator `**` has higher precedence than unary operators and is right-associative, as defined by the Python language reference (section 6.5). This right-associativity is consistent with mathematical notation where exponentiation is typically evaluated from top to bottom (e.g., a^b^c = a^(b^c)). Understanding this behavior is crucial when writing code that involves chained exponentiation, such as in cryptographic algorithms or scientific computing.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
- Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the PCEP exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this PCEP question test?
Data Types, Variables, Basic I/O and Operators — This question tests Data Types, Variables, Basic I/O and Operators — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: 512 — The expression `2 ** 3 ** 2` uses the exponentiation operator `**`, which in Python is right-associative. This means it is evaluated as `2 ** (3 ** 2)`, not `(2 ** 3) ** 2`. First, `3 ** 2` equals 9, then `2 ** 9` equals 512. Therefore, option A is correct.
What should I do if I get this PCEP question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
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Last reviewed: Jun 11, 2026
This PCEP practice question is part of Courseiva's free Python Institute certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the PCEP exam.
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