A little practice goes a long way.

2.5 · Multiplying and Dividing Negative Numbers

First calculate with the numbers without their signs. Then decide whether the answer is positive or negative.

Same signs → positive. Different signs → negative.

4 × 6 = 24. One negative factor means a negative answer.

5 × 3 = 15. Two negative factors give a positive answer.

36 ÷ 6 = 6. Two negative signs give a positive answer.