1. The problem is to evaluate the expression $17 - 8 \frac{9}{11}$. 2. First, convert the mixed number $8 \frac{9}{11}$ to an improper fraction. The formula is $a \frac{b}{c} = \frac{ac + b}{c}$. 3. Calculate the numerator: $8 \times 11 + 9 = 88 + 9 = 97$. So, $8 \frac{9}{11} = \frac{97}{11}$. 4. Convert 17 to a fraction with denominator 11: $17 = \frac{17 \times 11}{11} = \frac{187}{11}$. 5. Now subtract the fractions: $$\frac{187}{11} - \frac{97}{11} = \frac{187 - 97}{11} = \frac{90}{11}.$$ 6. Simplify the fraction if possible. Since 90 and 11 have no common factors other than 1, the fraction is already in simplest form. 7. Convert the improper fraction back to a mixed number: Divide 90 by 11: $90 \div 11 = 8$ remainder $2$. So, $\frac{90}{11} = 8 \frac{2}{11}$. **Final answer:** $8 \frac{2}{11}$