Question

Evaluate 15 + |-3| - 4

Answer 1

Answer: 14

Step-by-step explanation: The vertical bars around the -3 mean that we take the absolute value of that number which is the positive version of that number.

So the absolute value of -3 would be 3.

So we have 15 + (3) - 4 which simplifies to 18 - 4 or 14.

Notice that I used parentheses when first getting rid of the absolute value signs. I think that this method will help you avoid confusion when simplifying absolute values.

It's a good habit to get into for future problems.

Answer 2

Those lines on both sides of the number means "absolute value." Those lines tell us that the number is positive no matter what. So:

15 + |-3| - 4 → 15 + 3 - 4

Remember to follow PEMDAS when solving.

(15 + 3) - 4

18 - 4

14

Therefore, the answer is 14.

Best of Luck!