Solve the Arithmetic Sequence: 8+3-2+4 Step by Step

Q: Why can't I just add all the positive numbers first?

While it works for this problem, it breaks the order of operations rule. In expressions like $ 10-5+3 $, adding first gives 8 but the correct answer is 8. Always go left to right!

Q: Do I need to use PEMDAS for this problem?

Yes, but only the last two steps! Since there are no Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, or Division, you only need Addition and Subtraction from left to right.

Q: What if I get confused with the negative signs?

Think of subtraction as adding a negative number. So $ 8+3-2+4 $ becomes $ 8+3+(-2)+4 $, then work left to right!

Q: How can I double-check my work?

Try two methods: Method 1: Work left to right step by step. Method 2: Use a calculator. Both should give you 13!

Q: Is there a faster way to solve this?

With practice, you can group mentally: $ (8+3) + (4-2) = 11 + 2 = 13 $. But always follow left-to-right order until you're completely confident!

Order of Operations with Mixed Addition and Subtraction

Solve:

$8+3-2+4$

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Understand the problem

Solve:

$8+3-2+4$

Step-by-step solution

To solve the expression $8+3-2+4$ , we follow the order of operations, specifically focusing on addition and subtraction from left to right.
Step 1: Add the first two numbers: $8+3=11$ .
Step 2: Subtract the next number: $11-2=9$ .
Step 3: Add the final number: $9+4=13$ .
Therefore, the correct answer is $13$ .

Final Answer

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic

Rule: Add and subtract from left to right when no parentheses exist
Technique: Work step by step: 8+3=11, then 11-2=9, finally 9+4=13
Check: Count operations: 3 total steps should give same final answer ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors

Adding all positive numbers first, then subtracting
Don't calculate 8+3+4=15, then subtract 2 to get 13! This ignores left-to-right order and can give wrong answers in different problems. Always work from left to right with addition and subtraction.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

$$ 3+2-1= $$

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just add all the positive numbers first?

While it works for this problem, it breaks the order of operations rule. In expressions like $10-5+3$ , adding first gives 8 but the correct answer is 8. Always go left to right!

Do I need to use PEMDAS for this problem?

Yes, but only the last two steps! Since there are no Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, or Division, you only need Addition and Subtraction from left to right.

What if I get confused with the negative signs?

Think of subtraction as adding a negative number. So $8+3-2+4$ becomes $8+3+(-2)+4$ , then work left to right!

How can I double-check my work?

Try two methods: Method 1: Work left to right step by step. Method 2: Use a calculator. Both should give you 13!

Is there a faster way to solve this?

With practice, you can group mentally: $(8+3) + (4-2) = 11 + 2 = 13$ . But always follow left-to-right order until you're completely confident!

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