How to Add a Positive and a Negative Number

Step-by-step solution

1. Start at -7 on the number line.

   $$-7$$

   Why: The first number is the starting point.

2. Move 4 places to the right.

   $$4\ \text{steps right}$$

   Why: Adding a positive number moves right.

3. Read the landing point.

   $$-7 + 4 = -3$$

   Why: The move stops at -3, which is 4 units above -7.

Practice problems

Use the same method. Work each problem on paper, then open the answer to check.

1. 1

   $-9 + 3$

   Show answer

   $-6$

2. 2

   $5 + (-8)$

   Show answer

   $-3$

3. 3

   $-12 + 12$

   Show answer

   $0$

4. 4

   $-6 + 10$

   Show answer

   $4$

5. 5

   $8 + (-15)$

   Show answer

   $-7$