Step 1: First we have to write polynomials in descending order.
$$ \begin{aligned} P(x) &= 8n^2-8n-4 \\ Q(x) &= -2n^2 \\ \end{aligned} $$Step 2: Write second polynomial below the first one. Making sure like terms are lined up.
$$ \begin{array}{lrrr} & 8n^2 & -8n & -4 \\ \color{red}{ - } & -2n^2 & & \\ \hline \end{array} $$Step 3: Change ALL the signs in the second row.
$$ \begin{array}{lrrr} & 8n^2 & -8n & -4 \\ \color{red}{ - } & 2n^2 & & \\ \hline \end{array} $$Step 4: Combine like terms (add each column):
$$ \begin{array}{lrrr} & 8n^2 & -8n & -4 \\ \color{red}{ - } & 2n^2 & & \\ \hline & 6n^2 & -8n & -4 \end{array} $$