1. Find a Common Denominator:

* The smallest common denominator for 16 and 8 is 16.

* Convert 7/8 to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 16: (7/8) * (2/2) = 14/16

2. Add the Fractions:

* 5 1/16 + 7 14/16 = 12 15/16

Therefore, 5 1/16 inches plus 7 8 inches equals 12 15/16 inches.