1. **State the problem:** Solve the equation for $y$ given by $$y - 2 = -6$$ 2. **Formula and rules:** To isolate $y$, we need to undo the subtraction of 2 by adding 2 to both sides of the equation. 3. **Intermediate work:** $$y - 2 + 2 = -6 + 2$$ 4. **Simplify both sides:** $$y = -4$$ 5. **Explanation:** Adding 2 to both sides cancels out the $-2$ on the left side, leaving $y$ alone. On the right side, $-6 + 2$ simplifies to $-4$. Thus, the solution is $y = -4$.