1. The problem is to simplify the expression $5p + 3 - 2p + 8$. 2. We use the rule that like terms (terms with the same variable) can be combined by adding or subtracting their coefficients. 3. Identify like terms: $5p$ and $-2p$ are like terms because they both have the variable $p$. 4. Combine the like terms: $5p + (-2p) = (5 - 2)p = 3p$. 5. Combine the constant terms: $3 + 8 = 11$. 6. So, the simplified expression is $3p + 11$. 7. In summary, when you see $5p + (-2p)$, it means you are subtracting $2p$ from $5p$, which results in $3p$.