- Use brackets: Write −(−3) clearly to avoid confusion
- Number line: Draw one if you're unsure about ordering
- Check context: Does your answer make sense? (Temperature can't rise from −5°C to −10°C!)
- Sign rules: Same signs = positive, different signs = negative
- Double negative: Always becomes positive: −(−x) = +x
This exam tips covers Exam Tips 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 13 of 14 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Practice questions for Negative Numbers
Which of these statements is true?
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.
Quick recall flashcards
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.
Double Negative Rule
Subtracting a negative = Adding. Two minuses make a plus: 5 − (−3) = 5 + 3 = 8