Final answer:
To subtract 4 minus 12, you calculate 4 - 12 which results in -8, because subtracting a larger number from a smaller one gives a negative result. The concept of negative numbers is essential here, and changing the sign of the number being subtracted makes it an addition problem.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mondy is trying to subtract 4 minus 12 and needs help understanding this mathematical concept. To explain this, we have to introduce the idea of negative numbers. Subtracting a larger number from a smaller number results in a negative number.
Steps to Subtract 4 minus 12
This means that when subtracting a larger number from a smaller number, the result is the negative of the difference. For example, when we subtract 12 from 4, we get a negative number because 4 is less than 12. In general, when performing subtraction with negative numbers, remember to change the sign of the number being subtracted and then follow addition rules.