Multiplying Negative Numbers

The Rule: How to Multiply Negative Numbers

The result of multiplying negative numbers is given as:
Negative number times negative number = positive number
Negative number times positive number = negative number
Positive number times negative number = negative number

This is because multiplying some number by a negative number flips the sign. So, if a positive number gets multiplied by a negative number, the positive number’s sign gets flipped to negative.
Likewise, if a negative number gets multiplied by a negative number, the negative number’s sign will get flipped to positive.

Example Problems

Problem 1:
Solve (-4)(3).
Solution:
1.) The negative 4 will flip the sign of the positive 3.
2.) (-4)(3) = -12

Problem 2:
Solve (-10)(-2).
Solution:
1.) The negative 10 will flip the sign of the negative 2.
2.) (-10)(-2) = 20