1. **State the problem:** Evaluate $\log_9 3$. 2. **Recall the definition of logarithm:** $\log_a b = c$ means $a^c = b$. 3. **Apply the definition:** We want to find $c$ such that $9^c = 3$. 4. **Express 9 and 3 as powers of the same base:** $$9 = 3^2$$ So, $$9^c = (3^2)^c = 3^{2c}$$ 5. **Set the equation:** $$3^{2c} = 3^1$$ 6. **Since the bases are equal, equate the exponents:** $$2c = 1$$ 7. **Solve for $c$:** $$c = \frac{1}{2}$$ **Final answer:** $$\log_9 3 = \frac{1}{2}$$