Step 1: Subtract the smaller number from the bigger number.
Step 2: I f the 1st number is the bigger number; the answer is positive.

• example: 7-(6) = 1

If the 1st number is smaller, the answer is negative.

• example: (64) – (72) =-8

To Subtract a positive number from a negative number:

Step 1: Get rid of the double negatives by replacing the two negatives with a plus sign and rewrite the problem accordingly.

• Example -72 – (-64) = -72 + 64 =

Step 2: Subtract the smaller number from the bigger number.

• Example -72 – (-64) = -72 + 64 =
  • 72-64 = 8

Step 3: Determine if the answer is negative or positive:

• -72 + 64 = -8