Quick self-quiz

Tap each word to check what it stands for.

When to use it

Use it when multiplying two binomials such as $(x + 3)(x - 2)$ to make sure you hit all four term pairs.

Example

For (x+3)(x−2)(x + 3)(x - 2), First gives x2x^2, Outer gives −2x-2x, Inner gives 3x3x, Last gives −6-6, so the product is x2+x−6x^2 + x - 6.

Common mistake

Forgetting the Outer and Inner terms and only multiplying First and Last, which misses the middle terms entirely.