1. **State the problem:** Calculate the sum of $-2$ and $-3$. 2. **Recall the rule for adding negative numbers:** When adding two negative numbers, add their absolute values and then apply a negative sign to the result. 3. **Apply the rule:** $$-2 + (-3) = -(2 + 3)$$ 4. **Calculate the sum inside the parentheses:** $$2 + 3 = 5$$ 5. **Apply the negative sign:** $$-(5) = -5$$ 6. **Final answer:** $$-2 + (-3) = -5$$ So, the sum of $-2$ and $-3$ is $-5$.