If there are 12 apples and you take away 4, how many are left?

To find the number of apples left after taking away some, you start with the total amount and subtract the number that has been taken. In this case, you begin with 12 apples and take away 4.

The calculation is straightforward: 12 apples minus 4 apples equals 8 apples. This basic arithmetic leads to the conclusion that after removing the 4 apples, you are left with 8 apples.

Understanding the question hinges on clearly interpreting the phrase "you take away," which indicates subtraction from the total. The logical application of this arithmetic operation confirms that the number remaining is indeed 8.