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FOIL Method

Mike McGarry
Lesson by Mike McGarry
Magoosh Expert
Quiz
Algebra
Summary
The content focuses on the FOIL method for multiplying two binomials, detailing the process, providing examples, and highlighting common mistakes and important algebraic patterns.
  • FOIL stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last, which are the steps to multiply two binomials and add the results to get the product.
  • Examples of FOILing include both addition and subtraction within binomials, demonstrating how to combine like terms for the final product.
  • A common mistake in algebra is incorrectly distributing an exponent across addition or subtraction, which is highlighted with the correct approach to squaring a binomial.
  • The Square of a Sum and the Square of a Difference are two crucial patterns in algebra, derived from correctly applying the FOIL method to binomials squared.
  • Practicing FOIL and understanding these patterns is emphasized over memorization, ensuring a deeper comprehension of the material.
Chapters
00:01
Introduction to FOIL
02:31
Applying FOIL with Examples
05:47
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
07:23
Crucial Algebraic Patterns