1. Let's clarify why we use absolute value in the 6th step of a problem involving square roots or logarithms. 2. Absolute value is used to ensure the result is non-negative because square roots by definition return the principal (non-negative) root. 3. For example, when simplifying expressions like $\sqrt{x^2}$, the result is $|x|$, not just $x$, because $x$ could be negative. 4. This is important to maintain the correctness of the solution and avoid errors in sign. 5. So, in the 6th step, if you see $|x|$, it means the expression accounts for both positive and negative values of $x$ correctly. 6. This rule helps keep the solution mathematically accurate and consistent with the properties of square roots and absolute values.