To solve the inequality \( x + 2 \frac{1}{2} < 8 \), you first need to convert the mixed number into an improper fraction or a decimal.
\( 2 \frac{1}{2} = 2.5 \) or \( \frac{5}{2} \).
Now, rewrite the inequality:
\[ x + 2.5 < 8 \]
Next, subtract \( 2.5 \) from both sides:
\[ x < 8 - 2.5 \]
Calculating the right side:
\[ x < 5.5 \]
Now, the inequality written with \( x \) first is:
\[ x < 5.5 \]
So the final answer is:
\[ x < 5.5 \]