Solve the Integer Sequence: 3-4+2+1 Step by Step

Integer Operations with Mixed Signs

Solve:

34+2+1 3-4+2+1

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:04 Let's start by using the commutative law to rearrange the problem.
00:11 Now, we'll solve it step by step from left to right.
00:17 After rearranging, it becomes a simple subtraction problem.
00:22 Great job! That's how we find the solution!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Solve:

34+2+1 3-4+2+1

2

Step-by-step solution

We will use the substitution property to arrange the exercise a bit more comfortably, we will add parentheses to the addition operation:
(3+2+1)4= (3+2+1)-4=
We first solve the addition, from left to right:
3+2=5 3+2=5

5+1=6 5+1=6
And finally, we subtract:

64=2 6-4=2

3

Final Answer

2

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Order: Follow left-to-right rule for addition and subtraction
  • Strategy: Group positive numbers: (3+2+1)4=64 (3+2+1)-4 = 6-4
  • Check: Count total positive minus negative: 6 - 4 = 2 ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding all numbers without considering signs
    Don't add 3+4+2+1 = 10! This ignores the negative sign on 4. The subtraction sign means 4 is being taken away, not added. Always treat subtraction as adding a negative number or follow order of operations left to right.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

\( 100+5-100+5 \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Should I solve this left to right or group numbers first?

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Both methods work! Left to right: 3-4=-1, then -1+2=1, then 1+1=2. Grouping: (3+2+1)-4 = 6-4 = 2. Use whichever feels easier for you.

Why can I move the numbers around with parentheses?

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You can rearrange addition and subtraction using the commutative property, but be careful with signs! Think of subtraction as adding negative numbers: 3+(4)+2+1 3+(-4)+2+1 .

What if I get confused by all the plus and minus signs?

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Take it slow! Write each operation clearly: 3-4 = -1, then -1+2 = 1, then 1+1 = 2. Breaking it into small steps prevents mistakes.

Is there a shortcut for problems like this?

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Yes! Add all the positive numbers (3+2+1=6), then subtract all the negative numbers (just 4 here). So 6-4=2. This grouping method is very helpful!

How do I check if my answer of 2 is correct?

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Work through the original problem step by step: 3-4+2+1. Going left to right: 3-4=-1, -1+2=1, 1+1=2. ✓ Your answer matches!

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