Step 1: Rewrite the logarithmic equation in exponential form
The given equation is:
\[
\log_2 (x - 1) = 3
\]
By the definition of logarithms, we can rewrite this equation in exponential form:
\[
x - 1 = 2^3
\]
\[
x - 1 = 8
\]
Step 2: Solve for \( x \)
\[
x = 8 + 1 = 9
\]
Answer: Therefore, the value of \( x \) is \( 9 \). So, the correct answer is option (3).