How to Expand Binomials Using the Foil Method

Algebra is challenging for many students. Multiplying binomials can be confusing until you understand how the distributive method of multiplying works. However, the FOIL method is a little trick that makes expanding binomials easy for everyone. Students of algebra and parents of students taking algebra can all use the foolproof FOIL way to find the answers to those confusing binomial problems.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Paper

Instructions

1. Memorize the acronym FOIL. These letters stand each process in multiplying binomials: First, Outside, Inside and Last. This is the process of multiplying the four terms in the problem together.

2. Write out your equation on a piece of paper, for example (2x + 5)(3x + 6). Make sure you have plenty of room to write out each step to solve the equation.

3. Multiply the "First" number in each set of parentheses together, in this case it's 2x and 3x. Making your First "6x."

4. Multiply the "Outside" numbers in your equation, which are 2x and 6. The Outside of this equation is "12x."

5. Find the "Inside" factors in the the equation. In this example, they are 5 and 3x. Multiply them together to get your Inside result of "15x."

6. Complete the FOIL method by multiplying the "Last" factors in each set of parentheses, which are 5 and 6. This gives you a Last figure of 30.

7. Solve the problem by combining all four of your FOIL answers together. 6x + 12x + 15x + 30, which equals 33x +30.