1) \( \frac{-1}{8}-\frac{1}{2} \)

Let's break that down! First, we need a common denominator for the fractions \(-\frac{1}{8}\) and \(-\frac{1}{2}\). The least common denominator is 8. To convert \(-\frac{1}{2}\) to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 8, we multiply both the numerator and the denominator by 4, which gives us \(-\frac{4}{8}\). Now we can subtract: \[ -\frac{1}{8} - \frac{4}{8} = -\frac{1 + 4}{8} = -\frac{5}{8}. \] So the final answer is \(-\frac{5}{8}\)! Now, how about a quick tip? Always find a common denominator first; it makes adding or subtracting fractions a breeze!