1. **Problem:** Convert 8.5 points (pt) to centimeters (cm). 2. **Formula and conversion factor:** 1 inch = 2.54 cm and 1 inch = 72 points. 3. To convert points to centimeters, first convert points to inches, then inches to centimeters: $$\text{cm} = \text{pt} \times \frac{1 \text{ inch}}{72 \text{ pt}} \times 2.54 \text{ cm/inch}$$ 4. Substitute the value: $$8.5 \times \frac{1}{72} \times 2.54$$ 5. Calculate step-by-step: $$8.5 \times \frac{1}{72} = \frac{8.5}{72}$$ $$\frac{8.5}{72} = \frac{\cancel{8.5}}{\cancel{72}} \approx 0.1180556$$ 6. Multiply by 2.54: $$0.1180556 \times 2.54 \approx 0.2998$$ 7. **Answer:** $$8.5 \text{ pt} = 0.2998 \text{ cm}$$