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Integers are numbers that include whole numbers and their negative counterparts. For example,

• -3,
• 0,
• 2,
• 5,
• -12,

are all integers.
Integers do not include fractions, decimals, or non-numeric symbols.
Every integer has an opposite. For instance, the opposite of 3 is -3. This is because adding an integer to its opposite results in zero.
Understanding integers is vital as they form the foundation for other mathematical concepts such as addition, subtraction, and absolute value.

When adding negative numbers, it might seem tricky at first, but it becomes easier with practice.
The process involves adding the absolute values of the numbers, and since both numbers are negative, the sum will be negative too.
For example, in the expression \(-25 + (-12)\), you add the absolute values 25 and 12, which results in 37.
Since both numbers are negative, the sum is \(-37\).Negative numbers below zero mean deficit, while positive numbers represent a surplus.
This helps in understanding concepts like debts and credits in real-life scenarios.

A number line is a helpful tool for visualizing numbers, their positions, and operations such as addition and subtraction.
Imagine a straight line with numbers positioned at equal intervals. The center point is usually zero, with negative numbers to the left and positive numbers to the right.
The distance a number has from zero describes its absolute value. For negative numbers, while the number is left of zero, the absolute value will still be positive.
Using a number line, you can easily see how numbers add up by moving left or right accordingly. In the case \(-25 + (-12)\), start at -25 on the number line and move 12 units further to the left, landing at -37. This provides an intuitive grasp of how negative addition works.