a) \( (-1)+3 \)

Did you know that operations like addition have been around for thousands of years? Early civilizations, such as the Babylonians and Egyptians, were using basic arithmetic to manage trade and keep records long before calculators were invented. They even used special symbols to denote numbers, paving the way for modern mathematics! In real life, simple arithmetic like this can come in handy in countless scenarios. Whether you're balancing your budget, cooking (like adjusting a recipe), or even playing games, basic addition helps you keep everything in check. Next time you add numbers, remember you're engaging in an age-old practice that connects you to the past!