3 = -(-y + 6) First, simplify brackets. / Your problem should look like: 3 = y - 6 Second, add 6 to both sides. / Your problem should look like: 3 + 6 = y Third, simplify 3 + 6 to 9. / Your problem should look like: 9 = y Fourth, switch sides. / Your problem should look like: y = 9