1. The problem is to subtract 7 from 12 1/2. 2. First, convert the mixed number 12 1/2 to an improper fraction or decimal for easier calculation. $$12 \frac{1}{2} = 12 + \frac{1}{2} = 12.5$$ 3. Now subtract 7 from 12.5: $$12.5 - 7$$ 4. Perform the subtraction: $$12.5 - 7 = 5.5$$ 5. The result is 5.5, which can also be written as the mixed number 5 1/2. Therefore, the answer is $5.5$ or $5 \frac{1}{2}$.