Answer
$-16\le x \le 4$
Work Step by Step
$\bf{\text{Solution Outline:}}$
To solve the given inequality, $
\left| \dfrac{1}{2}x+3 \right| \le 5
,$ use the definition of absolute value inequality. Then use the properties of inequality to isolate the variable. Finally, graph the solution set.
In the graph, a hollowed dot is used for $\lt$ or $\gt.$ A solid dot is used for $\le$ or $\ge.$
$\bf{\text{Solution Details:}}$
Since for any $c\gt0$, $|x|\lt c$ implies $-c\lt x\lt c$ (or $|x|\le c$ implies $-c\le x\le c$), the inequality above is equivalent to
\begin{array}{l}\require{cancel}
-5\le \dfrac{1}{2}x+3 \le 5
.\end{array}
Using the properties of inequality to isolate the variable results to
\begin{array}{l}\require{cancel}
-5-3\le \dfrac{1}{2}x+3-3 \le 5-3
\\\\
-8\le \dfrac{1}{2}x \le 2
\\\\
2(-8)\le 2\left( \dfrac{1}{2}x \right) \le 2(2)
\\\\
-16\le x \le 4
.\end{array}
Upon checking, any value of the variable in the solution set satisfies the original inequality and any value not in the solution set does not satisfy the original inequality.
Hence, the solution set is $
-16\le x \le 4
.$