1. **State the problem:** We are given several linear expressions and asked to analyze or simplify the first expression: $$\frac{2x - 12}{8}$$. 2. **Formula and rules:** To simplify a fraction with polynomials, factor numerator and denominator and cancel common factors. 3. **Factor the numerator:** $$2x - 12 = 2(x - 6)$$. 4. **Rewrite the fraction:** $$\frac{2(x - 6)}{8}$$. 5. **Simplify the fraction by canceling common factors:** $$\frac{\cancel{2}(x - 6)}{\cancel{2} \times 4} = \frac{x - 6}{4}$$. 6. **Final simplified expression:** $$\frac{x - 6}{4}$$. This means the original expression simplifies to $$\frac{x - 6}{4}$$, which is easier to work with or graph.