1. **State the problem:** Given $x = -2$ and $y = 5$, evaluate the expression $$3x^2 - 2y.$$ 2. **Recall the formula and rules:** The expression involves squaring $x$ and multiplying by 3, then subtracting twice $y$. Remember that squaring a negative number results in a positive number because $$(-a)^2 = a^2.$$ 3. **Calculate each part:** - Calculate $x^2$: $$(-2)^2 = 4.$$ - Multiply by 3: $$3 \times 4 = 12.$$ - Multiply $y$ by 2: $$2 \times 5 = 10.$$ 4. **Substitute and simplify:** $$3x^2 - 2y = 12 - 10 = 2.$$ 5. **Final answer:** The value of the expression is $$2.$$