FOIL: using FOIL to simplify (x + 1)(x - 2)

[L3]

I think this is the right place to post this, if it isn't I'm very sorry.

Now I thought I understood FOIL, 'First, Outer, Inner Last' and so forth, and on the math site I was using I understood all their examples untill it came up with

(x + 1)(x - 2) = x^2 - x - 2

I just don't understand this. I keep trying it and I keep coming up with,

x^2 - 2x + x - 2

I'm sure it's some amazing stupidity on my part but I just cant see how they get their answer. It there something I'm missing that has to do with FOIL? Or am I just missing something in the problem itself?

 

[royhaas]

Combine -2x and +x.

 

[L3]

Oooohhh right. *hits self on head*

Thanks

 

[Deleted member 4993]

Oooohhh right. *hits self on head* ...Don't do that - hurt yourself

Thanks

 

[L3]

I had mildly hoped it might make me learn some math...doubtful, not too many recorded incidents of pain causing a miracle.

 

[Denis]

It's OK, L3: Einstein was also absent-minded :wink: