1. **State the problem:** Simplify the expression $\frac{1}{3} + 8$. 2. **Recall the rule:** To add a fraction and a whole number, convert the whole number to a fraction with the same denominator. 3. Convert 8 to a fraction with denominator 3: $$8 = \frac{8 \times 3}{3} = \frac{24}{3}$$ 4. Now add the fractions: $$\frac{1}{3} + \frac{24}{3} = \frac{1 + 24}{3} = \frac{25}{3}$$ 5. The simplified result is: $$\frac{25}{3}$$ This is an improper fraction and can also be written as $8 \frac{1}{3}$ if desired.