How do you subtract negative numbers?

The negative operation, minus, in conjunction with the negative sign on a number cancels out and becomes positive. For example 3 - (-1) = 3 + 1 = 4; similarly, -2 - (-2) = -2 + 2 = 0.

1. Verify signs

   The number should be preceded by a minus/negative sign (-). Positive numbers do not have a sign.

2. Check operator

   The operator has to be a minus symbol (-) between the number values.

3. Complete the calculation

   The operator and sign of the second number then become positive. For example, -3 - (-3) = -3 + 3 = 0 and 3 - (-3) = 3 + 3 = 6.