To simplify the expression \(- (11a + b) - (12a - 3b)\), let's first distribute the negative signs:
Distribute the negative sign on the first term: \[ - (11a + b) = -11a - b \]
Distribute the negative sign on the second term: \[ - (12a - 3b) = -12a + 3b \]
Now, we can combine the two results:
\[ -11a - b - 12a + 3b \]
Next, combine like terms:
Combine the \(a\) terms: \[ -11a - 12a = -23a \]
Combine the \(b\) terms: \[ -b + 3b = 2b \]
Putting it all together, the simplified expression is:
\[ -23a + 2b \]