1. **State the problem:** We are given three functions: $f(x) = 2x + 8$, $g(x) = x^2 + 2x - 8$, and $h(x) = 3x - 6$. We need to find the value of $f(0.5)$. 2. **Recall the formula:** To find $f(0.5)$, substitute $x = 0.5$ into the function $f(x)$. 3. **Substitute and simplify:** $$f(0.5) = 2(0.5) + 8$$ $$= 1 + 8$$ $$= 9$$ 4. **Final answer:** $$\boxed{9}$$ This means when $x = 0.5$, the function $f(x)$ evaluates to 9.