1. **State the problem:** We need to find the fraction of the circle that is shaded. 2. **Identify the total number of equal parts:** The circle is divided into 8 equal parts. 3. **Identify the number of shaded parts:** 2 parts are shaded. 4. **Write the fraction representing the shaded part:** The fraction is $ \frac{2}{8} $. 5. **Simplify the fraction:** $$ \frac{2}{8} = \frac{\cancel{2}^1}{\cancel{8}^4} = \frac{1}{4} $$ 6. **Interpretation:** This means $ \frac{1}{4} $ of the circle is shaded. **Final answer:** $ \frac{1}{4} $ of the circle is shaded.