1. **State the problem:** We have a piecewise function defined as: $$f(x) = \begin{cases} 6x + 5 & \text{for } x < -1 \\ -2 & \text{for } x = -1 \\ x & \text{for } -1 < x \leq 2 \end{cases}$$ We need to find the value of $f(7)$. 2. **Identify which piece to use:** Since $7 > 2$, none of the given pieces explicitly define $f(x)$ for $x > 2$. 3. **Interpretation:** The piecewise function is only defined for $x \leq 2$ and $x < -1$ and at $x = -1$. There is no definition for $x = 7$. 4. **Conclusion:** Since $f(7)$ is not defined in the given piecewise function, $f(7)$ is undefined based on the provided definition. **Final answer:** $f(7)$ is undefined because the function is not defined for $x > 2$.