Module 2 · Signed numbers · Lesson 6 of 39

Absolute value of an expression

Work out what's inside the bars first, then take the absolute value.

In this lesson · about 8 minutes

Simplify expressions that contain absolute value bars
Avoid the most common mistake

We can take the absolute value of a whole expression, like |−3 − 4|. The bars act like parentheses: simplify inside first, then take the absolute value.

Worked example

Simplify 2 + |5 − 9| − |−3|

Deal with everything inside the bars first, then do the rest of the operations.

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Practice sets mastered: 0 of 2

Tip: master each practice set first (get 5 right in a row).

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