Short Answer 
The initial number of fish in the tank is 10. After accounting for the fictional events that reduce the number of fish (2 drowning, 4 swimming away, and 3 dying), the final count is 1 fish remaining in the tank.
Understand the Initial Amount
Begin by identifying the initial number of fish in the tank. In this case, there are initially 10 fish. Recognizing this number is crucial as it serves as the basis for all subsequent calculations regarding the fish.
Identify Events Affecting the Total
Next, list all the events that reduce the number of fish in the tank. According to the problem, the relevant events include:
- 2 fish drown
- 4 fish swim away
- 3 fish die
While these events are fictional for fish, they help demonstrate the process of subtraction.
Perform the Subtraction Calculation
Finally, perform the subtraction to find out how many fish are left in the tank. You combine all the reductions calculated as follows:
- Start with the initial 10 fish
- Subtract the events: 10 – 2 – 4 – 3
- The result is 1 fish left in the tank
This simplifies the understanding of basic subtraction in a fun context.