1. **State the problem:** Solve the expression $5 - 2y$ for a given value of $y$ or simplify it as is. 2. **Understand the expression:** The expression $5 - 2y$ is a linear expression in terms of $y$. It cannot be simplified further without knowing the value of $y$. 3. **If solving for $y$ given an equation:** For example, if $5 - 2y = 0$, then we can solve for $y$. 4. **Set the equation:** $$5 - 2y = 0$$ 5. **Isolate $y$:** $$-2y = -5$$ 6. **Divide both sides by $-2$:** $$y = \frac{-5}{-2}$$ 7. **Simplify the fraction:** $$y = \cancel{-}\frac{5}{\cancel{-}2} = \frac{5}{2}$$ 8. **Final answer:** $$y = \frac{5}{2}$$ If no equation is given, the expression $5 - 2y$ remains as is.