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The number system is made up fundamentally of integers. An integer is simply any whole number, whether positive, negative, or zero. They do not include fractions or decimal numbers. For example, -3, 0, and 3 are all integers.
Integers can perform multiple operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. They are crucial in mathematical evaluations, including solving the expression in the exercise. Operating with integers involves understanding their properties, like the fact that adding a positive integer moves you up the number line, while adding a negative integer moves you down.

• Positive Integers: Whole numbers greater than zero (e.g., 1, 2, 3, ...).
• Negative Integers: Whole numbers less than zero (e.g., -1, -2, -3, ...).
• Zero: Neither positive nor negative, zero serves as the neutral element in addition.

Understanding these basics ensures a solid foundation for evaluating more complex expressions.

When multiple operations are combined in a mathematical expression, it's vital to know which to solve first. This is where the order of operations comes into play. The order of operations provides a guideline often abbreviated as BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division and Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction).

• Brackets: Always solve expressions inside brackets first.
• Orders: Solve exponents or powers right after brackets.
• Division and Multiplication: These operations are performed after exponents and from left to right as they appear.
• Addition and Subtraction: The final steps, like division and multiplication, are done from left to right.

In the given exercise, the operations inside the brackets were calculated first, which is consistent with the BODMAS rule. Following this order ensures evaluations are done accurately.

Negative numbers are an important concept in arithmetic, representing values less than zero. They are denoted with a minus sign (-) and have unique rules when it comes to operations.

• When adding negative numbers, think in terms of moving left on the number line.
• When subtracting a negative, you effectively add the opposite positive.
• Multiplying two negatives yields a positive result, whereas a positive and a negative yield a negative.

In the exercise at hand, negative numbers play a critical role. The expression involves adding two negative numbers (-2) and (-2). When you sum these numbers, you are effectively moving further left on the number line, resulting in -4. Understanding these interactions ensures you handle negative numbers confidently in any mathematical context.