Hi, there--

PROBLEM: Solve for y.
-3(2y-8)-y=-2(y-4)

SOLUTION:

Clear parentheses.
-6y + 24 - y = -2y + 8

Add 2y to both sides of equation and combine the y-terms.
-6y + 24 - y + 2y = -2y + 8 +2y
-5y + 24 = 8

Subtract 24 from both sides of the equation and combine the constant terms.
-5y + 24 - 24 = 8 - 24
-5y = -16

Divide both sides of the equation by -5.
y = 16/5 

Rewrite in decimal form.
y = 3.2

Check your answer in the original equation. Substitute 3.2 for y.
-3(2y - 8) - y = -2(y - 4)
-3(2(3.2) - 8) - 3.2 = -2((3.2) - 4)
-3(6.4 - 8) - 3.2 = -6.4 + 8
-3(-1.6) - 3.2 = 1.6
4.8 - 3.2 = 1.6
1.6 = 1.6
Check!

The solution to your equation is y = 3.2.

That's it,
Ms.Figgy