B) –4
C) –2
D) 14
Here’s How to Crack It
To solve the first equation, set x + 3 = 6 and set x + 3 = −6. If x + 3 = −6, then the absolute value would
still be 6. So, x can be either 3 or −9. Now, do the same thing to solve for y. Either y = 9 or y = −5.
To get the credited answer, you need to try the different combinations. One combination is x = −9 and y =
−5. So, x − y = −9 − (−5) = −4, which is (B).