1 Answer

It can be a bit confusing. But, once you get the hang of it , it gets easier. 

ADDITION:

(+) + (+) = (+)

Example:  

      7 + 3 = 10

(-) + (-) = (-)

Example:

     -6 + -4 = -10

(+) + (-) or, (-) + (+) = (+ or - ) depending which number is bigger. Note: You will subtract.

Example:  

     8 + -5 = 3

     5 + -8 = -3

SUBTRACTION:

(+) - (+) = (+)

Example:

    9 - 5 = 4

(-) - (+) = (- or +) depending which number is bigger.

Example:

    -6 - 4 = -10 

      4 - 6 = -2

Note: You cannot minus double negatives. A double negative becomes positive.

Example: 

     4 - (-3) = 4 + 3 = 7

    -4 - (-3) = -4 + 3 = -1

MULTIPLICATION & DIVISION:

(+) x or / (+) = (+)

Example:

     6 x 6 = 36

     36/6 = 6

(-) x or / (-) = (+)

Example:

     -7 x -4 = 28

     -28/-7 = 4

(+) x or / (-) = (-)  >  (-) x or / (+) = (-)

Example:

     5 x -6 = -30

    -6 x 5 = -30

    -30/5 = -6

    30/-5 = -6

Hope this helps!