GCSE Maths: Negative Numbers
Add, subtract, multiply and divide with negative numbers. Practise it with adaptive questions for AQA, Edexcel, OCR and Eduqas.
What you need to know
The concepts examiners test on negative numbers, and what each one is really asking.
Where marks get lost
The exam technique that separates a correct method from a correct answer.
- Thinking −3 × −4 = −12 (two negatives multiply to a positive)
- Confusing the sign rules for adding vs multiplying
- Thinking −5 is bigger than −2
- Getting confused by double negatives: 7 − (−3) = 7 + 3 = 10
Negative Numbers questions students ask
Is Negative Numbers on the Foundation paper?
Yes. Negative Numbers appears at both Foundation and Higher tier, though Higher papers take it further.
What should I know before starting Negative Numbers?
It builds on Number line and Addition and subtraction and Multiplication and division. If those feel shaky, practise them first — Negative Numbers questions assume them.
What is the most common mistake in Negative Numbers?
Thinking −3 × −4 = −12 (two negatives multiply to a positive).
Which exam boards cover Negative Numbers?
All four we support — AQA, Edexcel, OCR and Eduqas. GCSE Maths subject content is set by the DfE, so the topic is common to every board; what changes is the paper structure and the grade boundaries.