Skill: Subtract integers

To subtract integers, rewrite subtraction as adding the opposite:

$$a-b=a+(-b)$$

Then add the integers.

Example: Find $(5-(-3))$

1. Start with the expression:

$$5-(-3)$$

2. The opposite of $(-3)$ is $(+3)$. Rewrite the subtraction:

$$5+3$$

3. Add:

$$5+3=8$$

Therefore,

$$\boxed{5-(-3)=8}$$

On a number line, start at $5$. Because you are subtracting $(-3)$, move in the opposite direction of negative, which is $3$ spaces to the right. You land on $8$.

Subtracting a negative increases the value because it is the same as adding a positive.