Algebraic addition

Algebraic addition is a method in mathematics for adding numbers in which negative numbers can be added to and subtracted from other numbers. When a negative number is added to another number, it must be enclosed in parentheses and is simply subtracted from the number: $4+(-2)=2$. When a negative number is subtracted from a number, it is also enclosed in parentheses. The negative signs cancel with one another, and the number is then added: $4-(-2)=4+2=6$.