SHSAT Math · Number System

Absolute Value Practice

Absolute value concepts and equations. This is one of the skills tested on the SHSAT; the 2026 exam is computer-based with 50 Math questions in a 90-minute section. Try the samples below, then practice the full topic with instant feedback and explanations.

Free sample questions

Question 1

If |x| + |y| = 10 and x = −3, what are the possible values of |y|?

A7
B13
C−7
D7 or −7

Show answer and explanation

Answer: A

|x| = |−3| = 3. So 3 + |y| = 10 → |y| = 7. Since |y| is always non-negative, the only value is 7.

Question 2

What is the value of

|-16|

A $16$
B $0$
C $32$
D $-16$

Show answer and explanation

Answer: A

Absolute value is distance from zero, always non-negative:

|-16| = 16

Question 3

For which values of

x

|x| = 5

A $x = 5$ only
B $x = 5$ or $x = -5$
C $x = -5$ only
DNo solution

Show answer and explanation

Answer: B

Both

5

and

-5

have absolute value

5

, so

x = 5

x = -5

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Absolute Value Practice

Free sample questions

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