What is important to know about Negative numbers?

Two signs next to each other: same signs give a plus (−− = +), different signs give a minus (+− = −).

What is important to know about Negative numbers?

Multiplying or dividing: same signs → positive; different signs → negative.

What is important to know about Negative numbers?

Adding a negative is the same as subtracting: 5 + (−3) = 5 − 3 = 2.

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Number · Foundation & Higher

Negative numbers

Negative numbers lie to the left of zero on the number line. You must be able to add, subtract, multiply and divide with positive and negative numbers confidently.

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Key facts to remember

1Two signs next to each other: same signs give a plus (−− = +), different signs give a minus (+− = −).
2Multiplying or dividing: same signs → positive; different signs → negative.
3Adding a negative is the same as subtracting: 5 + (−3) = 5 − 3 = 2.
4Subtracting a negative is the same as adding: 5 − (−3) = 5 + 3 = 8.

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Worked examples

Example 1

Work out (−4) × (−3) + (−2).

Working

(−4) × (−3) = +12 (negative × negative = positive)
12 + (−2) = 12 − 2 = 10

Answer10

Example 2

Work out −15 ÷ 3 − (−4).

Working

−15 ÷ 3 = −5
− (−4) = + 4
−5 + 4 = −1

Answer−1

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Common mistakes

✗Forgetting that two negatives multiplied make a positive.

✗Confusing "subtract negative" with "subtract positive".

✗Losing track of signs in a multi-step calculation.

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Exam tips

✓Write every step — sign errors are the most common GCSE mistake.

✓Use a number line for add/subtract if you are unsure.

✓Remember: same signs → plus; different signs → minus.

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