1. **State the problem:** Thirty-five more than 0.8 times a number is the same as 43 less than the product of -7 and the number. 2. **Define the variable:** Let the number be $x$. 3. **Write the equation:** $$0.8x + 35 = -7x - 43$$ 4. **Solve the equation:** Add $7x$ to both sides: $$0.8x + 7x + 35 = -7x + 7x - 43$$ $$7.8x + 35 = -43$$ Subtract 35 from both sides: $$7.8x + \cancel{35} - \cancel{35} = -43 - 35$$ $$7.8x = -78$$ Divide both sides by 7.8: $$x = \frac{-78}{7.8}$$ Simplify the fraction: $$x = -10$$ 5. **Answer:** The number is $-10$.