The problem presented asks to write the expression $(7 + 3i) - (9 - 8i)$ in standard form $a + bi$.

Let's solve this step by step:

1. Distribute the negative sign inside the parentheses: $(7 + 3i) - 9 + 8i$

2. Combine like terms (real parts with real parts and imaginary parts with imaginary parts): $(7 - 9) + (3i + 8i)$

   This simplifies to: $-2 + 11i$

So, the expression in standard form $a + bi$ is $-2 + 11i$.

Would you like more details or have any questions? Here are some related questions to consider:

1. How do you add or subtract complex numbers?
2. What is the significance of the standard form $a + bi$ in complex numbers?
3. How do you multiply complex numbers?
4. What is the complex conjugate and how is it used?
5. How do you find the modulus of a complex number?

Tip: Always ensure to distribute negative signs correctly when subtracting complex numbers to avoid errors.