Predict the result
Raise the parenthesized negative three to the fourth power.

Set up the model
The parentheses make negative three the entire base.
Four factors with negative signs give a positive product.

Work the example
Multiply four copies of negative three.
The value is positive eighty one.

Check the result
Now evaluate negative three to the fourth without parentheses around negative three.
Take eight seconds to think before the answer appears.
[Eight-second silent pause to work; the answer remains hidden.]
The exponent applies to three first, then the leading negative gives negative eighty one.

Interpret the result
Parentheses determine whether the negative sign belongs to the base.