How to answer it
- Simplify inside absolute value bars and parentheses first.
- Apply absolute value: distance from zero, never negative.
- Combine the results.
Worked example
An original question in the ACT format, already answered.
ACT MathWorked example
|−7| − |3 − 10|
What is the value of the expression?
- A−14
- B0
- C4
- D14
Answer: B. |−7| = 7 and |3 − 10| = |−7| = 7, so 7 − 7 = 0. Choice A forgets that absolute value is never negative.
The most common trap
Distributing the absolute value bars. Simplify inside them first.
Practice it
Hourly Prep’s daily sets mix number and quantity with the rest of ACT Math, and send more of it your way when it’s a weak spot. See how the ACT prep plan works, or browse the other ACT skill guides.