Question

How do i simplify: ( y/2 -1 ) ^2

Answer 1

I'd combine (y/2 -1) into a single fraction first. Can you do that?

Answer 2

I've forgotten how to do it.
I'm supposed to get:
(y^2/4 -y/2 -y/2 +1)

Answer 3

then simplify it further

Answer 4

How would you combine 1/2 and 1?
How would you combine 50 cents and $1?
Same principle.

Answer 5

Couple rules to help you out.

\(\large\color{blue}{ \rm (a-b)^2=a^2-2ab-b^2 }\)

\(\large\color{blue}{ \rm (~\frac{a}{b}~)^{~2}~=~\frac{a^2}{b^2} }\)

\(\large\color{blue}{ \rm (-1)^2=1 }\)