5x+y=2 (we cannot have two variables together so: 5x+y=2 -y =-y so.. now we have 5x= 2-y (but we must get y positive and by itself!) -2 = -2 so: now you have 5x-2=-y but need a positive variable so multiply each side by a (-1) (-1) 5x-2=-y (-1) So.. -5x +2 =y so now we know Y! therefore whenever you see why in the next problem insert in its place: -5x +2