1. Stating the problem: Simplify the expression $3 - 3 \times 3 - 3^2$. 2. Recall the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS): - Exponents first - Then multiplication and division from left to right - Finally addition and subtraction from left to right 3. Calculate the exponent: $$3^2 = 9$$ 4. Substitute back into the expression: $$3 - 3 \times 3 - 9$$ 5. Perform the multiplication: $$3 - \cancel{3 \times 3} 9 - 9$$ 6. Simplify the expression: $$3 - 9 - 9$$ 7. Perform subtraction from left to right: $$3 - 9 = -6$$ 8. Then: $$-6 - 9 = -15$$ Final answer: $-15$