NumberDeep Dive

Adding and Subtracting with Negatives

Part of Negative Numbers · GCSE GCSE Mathematics revision

This deep dive covers Adding and Subtracting with Negatives within Negative Numbers for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Negative Numbers in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 4 of 14 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 4 of 14

Practice

12 questions

Recall

22 flashcards

Adding and Subtracting with Negatives

1 Adding a negative = Subtracting: 5 + (−3) = 5 − 3 = 2

2 Subtracting a negative = Adding: 5 − (−3) = 5 + 3 = 8

3 Memory trick: Two minuses next to each other (− −) become a plus!

4 Number line method: Move right for positive, left for negative

Keep building this topic

Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Negative Numbers. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

The Sign Rules for × and ÷Real World Applications Below Zero What Are Negative Numbers?

Practice Questions for Negative Numbers

Which of these statements is true?

A. -8 > -3
B. -3 > -8
C. -3 < -8
D. -8 = -3

1 markfoundation

Aisha's bank account shows a balance of -45 pounds. She deposits 70 pounds. Explain what her new balance is and what the negative sign meant originally.

2 marksstandard

Quick Recall Flashcards

Double Negative Rule

Subtracting a negative = Adding. Two minuses make a plus: 5 − (−3) = 5 + 3 = 8

Using a number line

Draw a horizontal line with 0 in the middle. Negative numbers go LEFT, positive RIGHT. Moving right = adding, moving left = subtracting.

12 questions on Negative Numbers — practise free

Instant marking, adaptive difficulty, and 22 spaced repetition flashcards. Free until your GCSEs.

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The Sign Rules for × and ÷

Real World Applications