How do I simplify this expression : -12 / 3 * (-8 + (-4)^2 - 6 ) + 2 the answer is -6.

To simplify the given expression: -12 / 3 * (-8 + (-4)^2 - 6 ) + 2, we follow the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS):

1. Start with the expression within the parentheses: (-4)^2 = 16.
Now the expression becomes: -12/3 * (-8 + 16 - 6) + 2.

2. Next, simplify the addition and subtraction within the parentheses: -8 + 16 - 6 = 2.
So, the expression becomes: -12/3 * 2 + 2.

3. Now, let's simplify the multiplication: -12/3 * 2 = -24/3 = -8.
The expression now becomes: -8 + 2.

4. Finally, perform the addition: -8 + 2 = -6.

Therefore, the simplified expression is -6.

this keeps cropping up. See the related questions below. But, just follow the rules you have learned:

-12 / 3 * (-8 + (-4)^2 - 6 ) + 2
-12 / 3 * (-8 + 16 - 6 ) + 2
-12/3 * 2 + 2
-4 * 2 + 2
-8 + 2
-6