Absolute Value and Order of Operations

First we have to look at all "Grouping Symbols" - these can be parentheses, brackets, absolute value bars and vinculum (aka the fraction bar that separates the numerator and denominator). Anything that is grouped must be solved (using order of ops) before moving on to the rest of the expression

Next, is "Exponents" - with integers we have to watch out for the placment of the exponent (is it inside or outside of parentheses?) and again the sneaky negative sign (remember the rules for multiply with a negative number)

Multiplication and Division are done next. Remember, these items are done in order from left to right. Sometimes we will be dividing before we are multiplying. Sometimes we will be multiplying before dividing. It depends which one comes up in the expression first (or on the left of the other one).

The same is true about the A. and S.

Addition and Subtraction must also be done left to right as well.

Also, it is a good idea to use your Keep, Change, Change for the subtraction part. It will help you keep track of negative signs.

Another way to help you watch out for your negative signs is to have another color (highlighter, colored pencil, etc.) that you can use to mark the negative signs so they stand out more and you pay more attention to them; in hopes of not leaving them behind in your work.