Question

Explain the FOIL method when multiplying two binomials. Use the following example to

help you explain in words.
(2x+3)(3x-1)

Answer 1

6x²+7x-3

Explanation:

(2x+3)(3x-1)

(2x)(3x)+(2x)(-1)+(3)(3x)+(3)(-1)

6x²-2x+9x-3

6x²+7x-3

Basically, what we are doing is taking 2x and distributing it to the 3x and -1. Then, we distribute the 3 to the 3x and -1. Add up these two totals and you have your expanded binomial.

FOIL means First, Outer, Inner, Last, so this makes sense.