Expert: Bobby Soltani - 12/17/2005

Question
Evaluate the expression
-5 + 6 - 12 + 4

Answer
Hi Randy,

Do this one from left to right, one step at a time.

-5 + 6 - 12 + 4

-5 + 6 is the same as 6 - 5, which is equal to 1.

1 - 12 + 4

1 - 12 is equal to -11.

-11 + 4

-11 + 4 is equal to -7.

It might be help to use a number line.  Draw a line and put marks on it with say, -20 on the left, and +20 on the right, with marks at every number in between, including 0.  The start at -5.  When you add a number, move to the right, when you subtract, move to the left.  This may help you visualize how the math works.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Bobby