1. **State the problem:** Solve the equation $x^2 + 3y = 5$ for $y$ in terms of $x$. 2. **Formula and rules:** To isolate $y$, we need to rearrange the equation by moving $x^2$ to the other side and then dividing by 3. 3. **Isolate $y$:** $$x^2 + 3y = 5$$ Subtract $x^2$ from both sides: $$3y = 5 - x^2$$ 4. **Divide both sides by 3:** $$y = \frac{5 - x^2}{3}$$ Show canceling if any common factors (none here): $$y = \frac{5 - x^2}{3}$$ 5. **Final answer:** $$y = \frac{5 - x^2}{3}$$ This expresses $y$ as a function of $x$.