To subtract fractions, we need a common denominator. In this case, the common denominator is 8.

5/8 - (-1/2) = 5/8 + 1/2 (since subtracting a negative is the same as adding the positive)

Now, we need to find a common denominator for 5/8 and 1/2, which is 8.

5/8 + 1/2 = 5/8 + 4/8

Now that the fractions have the same denominator, we can add the numerators:

5/8 + 4/8 = 9/8

So, 5/8 - (-1/2) = 9/8 or 1 1/8