1. **State the problem:** Solve the equation $$\frac{5y}{4} - \frac{y}{2} = -\frac{3}{4}$$ for $y$. 2. **Identify the formula and rules:** To solve for $y$, combine like terms and isolate $y$ on one side. Remember to find a common denominator when subtracting fractions. 3. **Find a common denominator for the left side:** The denominators are 4 and 2. The common denominator is 4. Rewrite $$\frac{y}{2}$$ as $$\frac{2y}{4}$$. 4. **Rewrite the equation:** $$\frac{5y}{4} - \frac{2y}{4} = -\frac{3}{4}$$ 5. **Combine like terms:** $$\frac{5y - 2y}{4} = -\frac{3}{4}$$ $$\frac{3y}{4} = -\frac{3}{4}$$ 6. **Multiply both sides by 4 to eliminate denominators:** $$\cancel{4} \times \frac{3y}{\cancel{4}} = \cancel{4} \times -\frac{3}{\cancel{4}}$$ $$3y = -3$$ 7. **Divide both sides by 3 to solve for $y$:** $$\frac{3y}{\cancel{3}} = \frac{-3}{\cancel{3}}$$ $$y = -1$$ **Final answer:** $$y = -1$$