Skill: Compare integers

To compare integers, locate them on a number line. The integer farther to the right is greater.

Remember:

• Every positive integer is greater than $0$.
• $0$ is greater than every negative integer.
• Among negative integers, the one closer to $0$ is greater.

Example: Order $-4$, $2$, $0$, and $-1$ from least to greatest.

1. Picture the numbers on a number line:

$$-4 \quad -1 \quad 0 \quad 2$$

2. Start with the number farthest left. That is $-4$.

3. Move right. Next is $-1$, then $0$, and finally $2$.

4. Write the order using less-than signs:

$$-4<-1<0<2$$

Notice that $-1>-4$ because $-1$ is closer to $0$. Also, both $0$ and $2$ are greater than the negative integers.