1. **State the problem:** Solve the linear equation $-5m - 10 = 0$ for $m$. 2. **Formula and rules:** To solve for $m$, isolate the variable by performing inverse operations. Remember, adding or subtracting the same number on both sides keeps the equation balanced. 3. **Step 1:** Add 10 to both sides to eliminate the constant term on the left: $$-5m - 10 + 10 = 0 + 10$$ which simplifies to $$-5m = 10$$ 4. **Step 2:** Divide both sides by $-5$ to solve for $m$: $$m = \frac{10}{-5}$$ 5. **Step 3:** Simplify the fraction: $$m = -2$$ **Final answer:** $$m = -2$$