How do i read this guitar tab

Question

ok well this is the tab its just the up sign that i need help on how do you play this

7^8 7 and its on the D string how do you play that

Answer 1

Usually at either the very top or very bottom of your tab, there is a key representing what all the symbols mean.  Each "tabber" uses his or her own conventions.  

I would think that the 7^8 means to play the 7 and then bend up to the 8, but it could also mean to slide or to hammer on.  Just play what sounds good to you.  Music shouldn't necessarily be imitated note for note.