Adding and Subtracting Integers

An integer is a whole number that can be positive, negative, or zero.

Adding integers involves combining their values. If both integers are positive, the result is positive. If both are negative, the result is negative. If one is positive and one is negative, subtract the smaller absolute value from the larger absolute value and take the sign of the integer with the larger absolute value.

Subtracting integers means finding the difference between them. To subtract a negative integer, you add its absolute value.

-76

-36

4

-23

6

Subtract the absolute value of the negative integer from the positive integer and take the sign of the integer with the larger absolute value.

When you subtract a negative integer, it is the same as adding its absolute value.